Essence of Leadership from Coursera

Welcome to the Essence of Leadership course! By the end of this course, you will have a thorough understanding of the foundations for leaders, present or future. You will learn about the basic principles and their applications in different contexts. You will gain exposure to different leadership styles and practices of various leaders, past and present.

The course orients you to the conceptual and theoretical considerations on the subject with its practical dimension with examples drawn from different domains of life from the recent developments. You will analyze how leadership is intimately linked to the process of obtaining solutions to potential social problems which is not achievable through individual action. You will examine global leadership traits, local-level leadership, and leadership portrayed in popular films that exhibit the different leadership perspectives and their central role in restoring order to otherwise chaotic situations.

This course provides a broad base and conduit to learners wishing to pursue a master’s degree program in Public Policy or related degrees in Business Administration or International Affairs.  

This course is designed for learners with some work experience in public or private organizations. The knowledge you gain from this course will help you advance to leadership positions in your careers or move to jobs that require leadership insights which are necessary for most intermediate and advanced job positions.   

To succeed in this course, you should have prior experience working in teams, and have a basic understanding of management or leadership. Above all, be interested in these topics.  

What's inside

Syllabus

Traditional and Modern Leadership

In this module, you will learn the basic definitions, common misconceptions, and focus of traditional and modern leadership studies. You will also learn about the interdisciplinary nature of leadership studies. You will know the basic components of key leadership styles and other styles in the continuum, leading in the VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous) World.

Political, Ethical, and Bureaucratic Leadership

This module focuses on the overview and different contexts of political leadership. You will learn about the evolution of political leadership and the modern-day challenges leaders face and potential solutions to those problems. This module prepares you to take an institutionalist approach and compare political leadership in old and new democracies. You will know the political override of the bureaucracy, people, politics, and public leadership. You will gain a deep understanding of ethical public leadership, ethical value and their importance for public leadership, ethical competencies, and key characteristics of ethical actions. Understanding various leadership attributes and styles will help you analyze political and bureaucratic relationships and evaluate transactional and transformational political leadership in organizations (Herbert Simon’s insights). You will also learn about bureaucratic leadership in the context of the UN systems where you will further examine issues, needs, and challenges they face in a multilateral setting.

Leadership in Specific Contexts of Complexity, Spirituality, and Gender

This module focuses on leadership in specific contexts of complexity, spirituality, and gender. You will learn about complexity leadership and explore the shifts leaders need to deal with complexity, innovation, and change. You will also explore spiritual, authentic, and servant leadership using Al Qaeda as an example of complexity-based organization and leadership. Further, you will learn the significance of gender, the influence of gender stereotypes, and variations in leadership traits, styles, and effectiveness among men and women leaders. You will also learn about leadership networking and its significance and analyze how it differs from conventional networking. Furthermore, you will learn about the context in which leadership ideas develop, when traditional leadership must change, and how these changes may impact the current leadership.

Globally Acclaimed Leaders

Leaders are considered successful if they can transfer chaos (randomness) in a social system into order (integration). This module focuses on the cases of five global leaders who effectively made this process effective. You will learn about the traits leaders use in their leadership activities and analyze the commonalities in their approaches.

Grassroot Leaders

Successful leadership at the macro level can be better achieved when supported actively by community leaders at the micro level. This module focuses on leaders operating at the grassroots level often initiating complementary changes at local levels. You will learn how these leaders’ efforts can be adapted for use in other local contexts and provide evidence for their effectiveness at macro levels as well. You will understand the role of grassroots leaders in bringing about order in a prevailing situation of chaos.

Leaders Portrayed in Films

Films are mostly portrayals of realities with reference to the past, present, and even future. This module focuses on three films with an emphasis on leadership. You will discover how these films illustrate the different perspectives of leadership. You will learn about the main role of leaders in bringing order to a situation of chaos.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Provides a broad base for public policy and business administration learners

Assumes prior experience working in teams and management

Focuses on leadership in contemporary contexts, such as spirituality

Taught by Dr. Naresh Singh and Milindo Chakrabarti

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Essence of Leadership with these activities:

Compile and review pre-course notes

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Compiling previous assignments and resources will help you build a knowledge base and subject familiarity before you even start on the course.

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Gather and organize notes, assignments, quizzes, and exams from previous courses related to leadership
Review the collected materials to refresh your memory and identify areas where you need further reinforcement

Review: 'Good to Great' by Jim Collins

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This book provides valuable insights into the qualities and practices that distinguish exceptional leaders and organizations.

View Good to Great on Amazon

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Read the book attentively, taking notes and highlighting key concepts
Summarize the main ideas and principles outlined in the book
Reflect on how the lessons learned from the book can be applied to your own leadership journey

Review Concepts of Complexity, Spirituality, and Gender in Leadership

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This activity provides an opportunity to brush up on key concepts discussed in the module on Complexity, Spirituality, and Gender in Leadership.

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Review course notes or textbooks to refresh your understanding of complexity leadership, spiritual leadership, and gender dynamics in leadership roles
Explore online resources, articles, or videos to supplement your knowledge and gain diverse perspectives on these topics

Five other activities

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Analyze Political Leadership: Historical and Current Case Studies

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This activity supplements the course material on political leadership by providing practical examples and case studies for analysis.

Browse courses on Political Leadership

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Select 2-3 historical or current political leaders who exemplify different leadership styles and approaches
Research and gather information on their leadership qualities, decision-making processes, and impact on society
Analyze the case studies to identify patterns, best practices, and common challenges in political leadership

Participate in Peer Discussions on Leadership Styles

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Engaging in peer discussions provides an opportunity to exchange ideas, share experiences, and learn from the perspectives of other learners.

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Join an online forum or discussion group related to leadership and management
Participate in discussions, ask questions, and share your insights on various leadership styles and their applications
Reflect on the discussions and consider how they broaden your understanding of leadership

Develop a Leadership Development Plan

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Creating a personalized leadership development plan will help you apply the concepts learned in the course to your own career and leadership aspirations.

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Assess your current leadership strengths and areas for improvement
Identify specific skills, knowledge, and experiences you need to develop to achieve your leadership goals
Create a plan outlining the steps you will take, resources you will use, and timeline for your development
Implement your plan and track your progress regularly

Attend a Leadership Development Workshop

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Attending a workshop specifically focused on leadership development will provide you with structured learning, practical exercises, and networking opportunities.

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Research and identify leadership development workshops that align with your interests and career goals
Register and attend the workshop, actively participating in the sessions and engaging with other participants
Apply the knowledge and skills gained from the workshop to your own leadership practice

Volunteer in a Community Leadership Role

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Practical experience in a community leadership role will provide you with hands-on application of leadership principles and opportunities for personal growth.

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Identify volunteer opportunities that align with your interests and leadership aspirations
Apply for and secure a volunteer position that provides leadership responsibilities
Actively participate in the role, taking initiative and demonstrating your leadership abilities
Reflect on your experiences and identify areas for improvement and continued development

Career center

Learners who complete Essence of Leadership will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

CEO

Chief Executive Officers are responsible for the overall success of their organizations. They make major decisions, set goals, and oversee the day-to-day operations of their companies. The Essence of Leadership course can equip you with the leadership skills and knowledge necessary to excel in this role. The course covers topics such as traditional and modern leadership, political leadership, ethical leadership, and leadership in specific contexts.

See salaries and explore the career path for CEO

Political Consultant

Political Consultants advise candidates for political office on strategy, messaging, and fundraising. They help candidates develop their platforms, craft their speeches, and manage their campaigns. The Essence of Leadership course can provide you with the theoretical foundation and practical skills necessary to succeed in this role. The course covers topics such as political leadership, ethical leadership, and leadership in specific contexts.

See salaries and explore the career path for Political Consultant

Business Development Manager

Business Development Managers are responsible for generating new business for their companies. They identify and qualify leads, develop sales strategies, and close deals. The Essence of Leadership course can help you develop the leadership skills and knowledge necessary to excel in this role. The course covers topics such as traditional and modern leadership, leadership in specific contexts, and globally acclaimed leaders.

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Nonprofit Executive Director

Nonprofit Executive Directors are responsible for the overall management and operation of their organizations. They develop strategic plans, oversee fundraising, and manage staff. The Essence of Leadership course can provide you with the leadership skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in this role. The course covers topics such as ethical leadership, leadership in specific contexts, and grassroots leaders.

See salaries and explore the career path for Nonprofit Executive Director

Public relations manager

Public Relations Managers are responsible for managing the public image of their organizations. They develop and implement public relations campaigns, manage media relations, and respond to crises. The Essence of Leadership course can equip you with the leadership skills and knowledge necessary to excel in this role. The course covers topics such as traditional and modern leadership, ethical leadership, and leadership in specific contexts.

See salaries and explore the career path for Public relations manager

Project Manager

Project Managers are responsible for planning, executing, and closing projects. They develop project plans, manage budgets, and track progress. The Essence of Leadership course can help you develop the leadership skills and knowledge necessary to excel in this role. The course covers topics such as traditional and modern leadership, leadership in specific contexts, and globally acclaimed leaders.

See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager

Government Relations Manager

Government Relations Managers are responsible for representing their organizations before government agencies. They develop and implement government relations strategies, lobby for legislation, and track regulatory changes. The Essence of Leadership course can provide you with the theoretical foundation and practical skills necessary to succeed in this role. The course covers topics such as political leadership, ethical leadership, and leadership in specific contexts.

See salaries and explore the career path for Government Relations Manager

Corporate Communications Manager

Corporate Communications Managers are responsible for managing the internal and external communications of their organizations. They develop and implement communications strategies, write press releases, and manage media relations. The Essence of Leadership course can equip you with the leadership skills and knowledge necessary to excel in this role. The course covers topics such as traditional and modern leadership, ethical leadership, and leadership in specific contexts.

See salaries and explore the career path for Corporate Communications Manager

Media Relations Manager

Media Relations Managers are responsible for managing the media relations of their organizations. They develop and implement media relations strategies, write press releases, and manage media inquiries. The Essence of Leadership course can provide you with the theoretical foundation and practical skills necessary to succeed in this role. The course covers topics such as traditional and modern leadership, ethical leadership, and leadership in specific contexts.

See salaries and explore the career path for Media Relations Manager

Public Affairs Manager

Public Affairs Managers are responsible for managing the public affairs of their organizations. They develop and implement public affairs strategies, manage media relations, and track regulatory changes. The Essence of Leadership course can equip you with the leadership skills and knowledge necessary to excel in this role. The course covers topics such as traditional and modern leadership, ethical leadership, and leadership in specific contexts.

See salaries and explore the career path for Public Affairs Manager

Sustainability Manager

Sustainability Managers are responsible for developing and implementing sustainability strategies for their organizations. They track environmental performance, develop sustainability goals, and manage stakeholder relations. The Essence of Leadership course can help you develop the leadership skills and knowledge necessary to excel in this role. The course covers topics such as traditional and modern leadership, ethical leadership, and leadership in specific contexts.

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Operations Manager

Operations Managers are responsible for the day-to-day operations of their organizations. They develop and implement operational plans, manage budgets, and track progress. The Essence of Leadership course can provide you with the leadership skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in this role. The course covers topics such as traditional and modern leadership, leadership in specific contexts, and globally acclaimed leaders.

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Event Planner

Event Planners are responsible for planning and executing events. They develop event plans, manage budgets, and coordinate logistics. The Essence of Leadership course may be useful for developing the leadership skills and knowledge necessary to excel in this role. The course covers topics such as traditional and modern leadership, leadership in specific contexts, and globally acclaimed leaders.

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Training and Development Manager

Training and Development Managers are responsible for developing and implementing training and development programs for their organizations. They identify training needs, develop training materials, and deliver training sessions. The Essence of Leadership course may be useful for developing the leadership skills and knowledge necessary to excel in this role. The course covers topics such as traditional and modern leadership, leadership in specific contexts, and globally acclaimed leaders.

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Human Resources Manager

Human Resources Managers are responsible for the human resources function of their organizations. They develop and implement HR policies, manage employee relations, and recruit and hire new employees. The Essence of Leadership course may be useful for developing the leadership skills and knowledge necessary to excel in this role. The course covers topics such as traditional and modern leadership, ethical leadership, and leadership in specific contexts.

See salaries and explore the career path for Human Resources Manager