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Thoughts on Collegial Leadership

Many can do what one can never do alone.  I believe that is part of what Paul refers to in the image of the church as the body of Christ:  functioning best in interdependence and reciprocity, each bringing particular contributions which enhance the whole.  A variety of perspectives can only enrich a project and invest the players in the work at the same time.

 

But collegial work doesn’t mean that no one serves as leader.  We can’t all be followers in working on something together.  I am committed to collegial LEADERSHIP; that is, my desire is to inspire others to bring their best work to the table by taking the lead in bringing my best work to the table.  I try to call others to be authentic and transparent, committed and fully present by coming into the leadership role with these same attitudes and qualities as developed in me as God and I can manage. 

 

Collegial leadership is respectful.   Collegial leaders take responsibility for themselves, but never presume that they have the best plan.  Collegial come from a place of service; that is, my leadership needs to be about the project or the people served rather than about the greatness of my ideas or contributions.  Collegial leaders come to the table with openness and genuine interest in the contributions of others, anticipating and encouraging the creativity, insights, and investment of all who are involved.