Heterodox Leadership- A Subsequent Model of Leadership in the 21st Century

Abstract

Leadership has been the backbone of success for all organisations, and it spans over the entire spectrum of human existence. Contemporary times have seen leadership in its new avatar, especially with technology achieving new heights and Covid-19 pandemic causing loss to value human lives. Information overload is so high that it is difficult to identify the true leader. Every person is a leader in oneself and attempts to perform to one’s capability. Everyone by now understands different leadership theories and traits associated with the brand called 'leader'. Schools and colleges teach leadership as a subject and everyone is familiar with the basics of leadership. However, leaders require different traits due to social changes, corporate demand, and various jobs, businesses, and entrepreneurship. This heterodoxic nature of leadership is taking shape with new ways of international trade and business as well. E-commerce and online trading platforms have multiplied manifold and have created enormous opportunities. Complexities of climate change, international relations and strategic power games are reshaping; there is, thus, rising demand for new types of leadership. The leadership models in the contemporary world are heterodoxic and freedom-oriented in the fast changing technological milieu. Everyone has an opinion, and everyone wants to influence and expect others to follow. As a result, there are differences in views and teamwork and leadership are becoming challenging. Orthodox leadership in the future is likely to be based on both the latest technology and human resource. Leaders will have to transform to suit the dynamics of changing professional and social environments. This paper attempts to reflect on heterodox leadership in 21st century and how heterodox leaders will survive and sustain their excellence.