We exist in an era of great change and widespread uncertainty in which course-determining decisions lie with organizational leaders; in this continually shifting climate we require their courage to take action. Billions of dollars are spent annually on developing leaders, yet despite these efforts, most organizations report a shortage of leaders - a leadership gap - and estimates of leadership failures approach fifty per cent.

Authored by some of the best names in the subject area, this book addresses this issue and provides readers with an innovative approach to learning leadership skills, merging theory with practice to enable a better understanding of this complex and significant subject. It emphasizes a balance of skills, the critical role of feedback in learning and development, and innovative thoughts on developing women leaders. Taking an international perspective, this outstanding text will be an invaluable resource for those studying leadership, organizational behaviour and human resource management as well as those on specialist masters and MBA courses, and will be especially useful for those undertaking the difficult task of leading within organizations.