Entrepreneur Leadership

Entrepreneurial Leadership

April 24, 2011

Discuss the common elements described in the theories/philosophies of Case, Kouzes, and Drucker including how their principles/strategies relate to the new definition of entrepreneurial leadership presented in Understanding Entrepreneurial Leadership in today’s Dynamic Markets

In the past, many researchers have attempted to define entrepreneurial leadership while trying to determine if entrepreneurship and leaders are interrelated. Leadership involves strategically committing to an organizational vision that improves performance while leading and remaining competitive within an uncertain business environment. Entrepreneurs generally have the same goals but incorporate the qualities of being a visionary and displaying innovativeness. Steven Case, James Kouzes and Peter Drucker have given their principles and strategies on how to better become entrepreneurs of the 21st century. Steven Case, AOL CEO and Chairman feel that having the right people to support the leader’s mission creates a promising venture. For example, when Steven decided to merge with Time Warner Cable it was doomed for failure because each business had their individual culture and objectives. The merger initially seemed like an excellent idea but because the leaders of each organization had their own agenda it led to business cultures that clashed. Consultant, Teacher, and Author Peter Drucker states “Innovation had better not be diversification. Whatever the benefit of diversification, it does not mix with entrepreneurship and innovation.” (Ozgurzan, 2006, 2)

In addition to having the best fit leaders for an organization, an entrepreneur must incorporate these values with their employees and their customers. Author James Kouzes states in order to remain an effective entrepreneurial leader people should strive to gain the support of their constituents. Leaders succeed when they have individuals that share the same vision. This idea is...