Once upon a time the characteristics of a leader – especially in an organisational context – meant authority, responsibility and a pay packet to match. More recently, while many of those markers remain true, there has been a shift in how we view our leaders and what we expect them to be.
Ethical leadership is imperative in this complex, interconnected, and rapidly developing world. There is an expectation of leaders now to not only lead, but to do so in a way that seriously considers ethics and social values.
To help build capacity in this area, the Centre for Social Justice & Inclusion has launched an online taster course on ethical leadership. This course was developed to teach individuals how to be leaders who demonstrate positive behaviour through their work, creating positive change.
According to Alex Connor, Training and Volunteer Coordinator at the Centre for Social Justice & Inclusion, and co-creator of the course, this is vital given today’s environment.
‘The impacts of social inequality are being felt more than ever, issues like climate change are becoming an existential threat and the impacts of the global pandemic have not only transformed the way we live and work, but highlighted systemic issues and challenge what we once thought was possible,’ says Alex.
‘Many people in society are wondering “how can I, as an individual, avoid mistakes of the past and create the change needed to move society forward?” We hope that this taster course can play a small part in helping people realise the power they have to make a positive change, and to lead with purpose.’
Teaching ethics in leadership
Through self-reflection and using examples from popular culture, the course explores the seven characteristics ethical leaders demonstrate. It shares techniques to develop those characteristics, and to understand yourself and your drivers and the kinds of behaviours you can demonstrate to be an effective leader.
‘This course isn’t just about being an effective manager, it’s about learning lessons from change-makers and gaining skills you can apply to any situation to make sure you lead with purpose and honesty. Ultimately, it’s about supporting everyone in our community to bring about positive change,’ say Alex.
‘It feels like we’re at a point in history where things are changing rapidly. It’s our responsibility to ensure that we continue to work to contribute to social good in society, and do so in an open, fair and transparent way.’
‘Our hope with this course is that people will feel like they are supported in developing skills and behaviours they can apply to any challenge. Knowing that through their everyday actions they are contributing to making the world a better, fairer, more ethical place.’
The Ethical Leadership taster course is now available to all students and members of the public via UTS Open. Available for everyone, at every level of career or study.