Selecting a new leader : Identifying and recruiting leaders with the ability to lead others to lead themselves

Abstract: The meaning of the word leadership is changing over time, and so is the role of the leader. Organisational labour is today required to be more self-governing as organisational tasks are moving towards a more flexible and independent nature. This requires a leadership able to inspire and motivate independent performance by acting as an inspirational mentor or coach (Bass and Riggio (2005). Those leaders and that style of leadership have many names, but in our research they are titled as Transformational and Charismatic leaders, as well as Super Leaders. Perhaps they are best described by using Vardiman et al (2006:97) own words: “the most effective leaders teach others to be effective leaders of themselves and others." Identifying, selecting and recruiting the right leader are a competitive advantage and an important success factor (Fernández-Aráoz et al, 2009). The objective of this thesis is therefore to gain knowledge in the manners present when charismatic and inspirational leaders with the ability to lead others to lead themselves are identified, recruited and selected. We judge gaining understanding in how to identify, attract, select, recruit and keep leaders with this special leadership style as a vital knowledge in today’s highly competitive business world. This thesis approaches leader recruitment from both an external and internal perspective by conveying dialogues with recruitment consultants as well as with a HR-manager. The thesis further raises the question whether the inspirational and charismatic leadership style is appropriate in all type of organisations and here focus on organisational culture as a key determinant when recruiting leaders.