People should genuinely prioritize leadership education for a multitude of reasons.
When a leader stumbles repeatedly, the repercussions extend beyond personal failure; they fundamentally betray the trust and hopes of the constituents who elected them. This disappointment can lead to a disillusioned community, which underscores the critical importance of effective leadership.
Leadership is not merely an innate quality; it is an intricate interplay of both ART and SCIENCE. Furthermore, it is a systematically organized and integrated field that demands thorough exploration and understanding.
Aspiring leaders should enrich their skill sets, knowledge base, and attitudes by incorporating the following essential competencies:
- Strategy & Tact.
No one arrives at a leadership position and sustains success without a clear, well-crafted strategy. Strategy is akin to an advanced game plan that enables leaders to outmaneuver their rivals and excel in their objectives. Without strategic foresight, even if someone finds themselves in a leadership role by chance, they risk being easily overwhelmed. Therefore, aspiring leaders must hone their strategic skills. Reach out to me for guidance on developing these crucial abilities.
- Negotiation Skills.
A surprising number of leaders lack strong negotiation skills. Many are unaware of the fundamental principles that govern effective negotiation, often resulting in outcomes that disadvantage themselves. Given that leaders engage in negotiations daily, mastering this skill is paramount. I encourage aspiring leaders to pursue formal negotiation training, acknowledging that those in leadership positions require these skills even more than managers do. I’m here to assist you in this journey.
- Conflict Resolution.
It is astonishing to consider that someone might aspire to hold political office without first acquiring knowledge in Conflict Management and Crisis Management. Conflict Resolution stands as the cornerstone in the realm of People Management—it is not merely a facet of Human Resources Management. Every prospective leader must possess a foundational understanding of mediation and conflict resolution techniques.
- Project Management.
In the realm of leadership, a significant portion—over 40%—of one’s responsibilities can be viewed as projects: these encompass Projects, Operations, and Programs. As you prepare to guide others, it’s essential to equip yourself with fundamental Project Management principles. This knowledge is not limited to managing construction projects but extends to overseeing unique initiatives, services, and programs, including the pivotal tasks of running a campaign and managing your tenure, both of which can be treated as independent projects. Expertise in Project Management is crucial. I, Mike Ihezuo, can help you navigate this field.
- Power Study.
It is imperative to avoid stepping into the arena of politics without a thorough understanding of the dynamics of power. Power acts as a form of protection instituted by a higher authority, safeguarding leaders’ lives, businesses, and assets against adversaries. Unfortunately, many political figures, particularly in Africa and Nigeria, have often misused these concepts. I can recommend several insightful courses on power based on comprehensive analysis and esteemed literature. Some essential readings include:
– How to Rule The World: A Handbook for the Aspiring Dictator by Andre De Guillaume
– The Art of Seduction by Robert Greene
– The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene
– The Art of War by Sun Tzu
– The Strategem by Sun Tzu
– The Mafia Manager by The Machiavellian
– The Prince by The Machiavellian
Please note that these training topics are intended for mature, trusted individuals, not for those lacking discernment or purpose. They are not designed to encourage reckless behavior.
Caveat: The subjects discussed should not be misconstrued as part of my character or that of our resource persons. Rather, they are intended to equip mature minds with the tools and insights that others may utilize against them, ultimately aiming to shield our participants from harmful practices.
You can engage with these topics through both ONLINE and OFFLINE formats.
Best regards. Dr. Mike Ihezuo of The Mike Ihezuo Leadership Broadcast, https://www.mikeihezuospeaks.net/leadership, can help you.
