Leadrship

Presentations

Copyright 2008 Sage Publications

Chapter 6Creating a Vision

© 2012 SAGE Publications, Inc.

• Vision is a mental model of an ideal future state—“what could be.”

• Visions imply change & challenge people to reach a higher standard of excellence, giving meaning & purpose to people.

• Ideally they are shared by the leader & members of the group or organization.

What Is a Vision?


Covey (1991)

“Begin with the end in mind”

Highly effective people have a deep understanding of their goals, values, & mission in life, which provides the basis for everything else they do.


• Research on visionary leadership suggests visions have five characteristics (Nanus, 1992; Zaccaro & Banks, 2001): o A pictureo A changeo Valueso A mapo A challenge

Characteristics of a Vision


• A vision creates a picture of a future that is better than the status quo—an idea about the future that requires an act of faith by followers.

o Ideal picture of where an organization should be going

o Sometimes a leader’s vision is clear, sometimes it is only a general direction

A Picture


• Visions represent a change in the status quo, a change toward something more positive in the future.

o It is not uncommon for leaders to experience resistance to their vision and be accused of “stirring up the pot.”

A Change


• Provides direction

• Allows people to appreciate their contributions to the organization

A Map


• Requires the right language, words that are motivating & inspiring

• Words such as “we” and “our” are preferred over “they” or “them”.

• Inclusive language builds community around a common goal

Articulating A Vision.


Activity – 30 minutes• Working in pairs, do a web search on inspiring vision

statements• Choose one that you like• E-mail this to your classmates or post it on the wall so others

can read it• Be prepared to share why you like the vision you have chosen

and how it offers:1. A picture2. A change3. Values4. A map5. A challenge

• Implementing vision is true test of a leader.o The leader must model the attitudes, values, and

behaviors set forth in the vision—the leader must be the living example of the ideals articulated in the vision.

o When leaders are seen acting out the vision, it builds credibility.

o Implementation requires a leader sets high expectations for others.

o Setting challenging goals motivates people.o This process doesn’t happen rapidly but takes

continuous effort.

Implementing Vision


Create Your Own Personal Vision• http://

humanresources.about.com/od/success/a/personal_vision.htm

Copyright 2008 Sage Publications

http://humanresources.about.com/od/success/a/personal_vision.htm




Summary• A competent leader will have a compelling vision

of a better future.• A vision is grounded in values and advocates

change toward some goal.• The leader articulates the vision, highlights the

values, uses uplifting and inclusive language.• The leader needs to be a living model.• The leader sets high performance expectations

and encourages and empowers others to reach their goals.


Education

Leadrship