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Stuart Gentle Publisher at Onrec

Corporate autocrats ñ no place to hide

The matrix model is now present in 85% of modern organisations, and modern management doctrine is determined by democracy and consensus. In theory

The matrix model is now present in 85% of modern organisations*, and modern management doctrine is determined by democracy and consensus. In theory. Because we all know an autocrat who still seems to believe - however covertly - that organisations are essentially armies at war. And that they should be run accordingly. Especially if he or she driving the tank.

It may be time to apply the breaks, as we learn that the military has no room for leadership autocracy either, according to one of its top spokespeople.

ìTeambuilding skills, honest communication, good judgement and careî ñ such are the main building blocks for good leadership, according to Major General Arthur Denaro CBE. Even in conflict? The Major General acted as Chief of Staff of 44,000 troops from 31 different nations in the Balkans. And, having faced moments of confidence crisis during his career, he is a firm believer the all-important combination of humility and self-esteem.

ìI believe that leaders are born with a spark to do something for others, but that one should never stop learning. And one has to show exemplary behaviour in all circumstances. Communication is really about knowing how to listen, a well-working team is essential and good judgement needed when one has to choose the right man or woman for a task. A leader must also be able to show compassionî.

Speaking at the Krauthammer annual client meeting ëEffective Leadershipí in Oxford, the Major Generalís comments met with agreement from business leaders who concurred on the most important leadership themes such as teambuilding, communications, judgement and care.

So much for the General, what of the army? Once again: ìAny organisation must communicate its values to the employees. It is all about passing the conviction to others, people will feel motivated and committed when their own values match together with the organisationís onesî.

*Krauthammer International Vision Research Briefing ñ Matrix Organisations ñ www.krauthammer.com Management Information and Research.