The difference between global and local leaders

The difference between global and local leaders is not a question of geography. The difference between is their impact appeal and their eventual influence. Global leaders are focused on the advancement of the human race, local leaders are proud their development record. These tow leaders are different in their thinking and approach to the resolution of issues. While global leaders think of, “how to make things better for everyone”, local leaders think about , “what is in it for us?”

These two leadership thought processes are different in at least four areas. While global leaders can live with diversity, local leaders focus on uniformity. Global leaders pursue synergy, local leaders settle for harmony. While global leaders encourage innovation, local leaders value tradition. While global leaders pursue purpose, local leaders are satisfied with principles. Neither global nor local thinking is good or bad, but their approaches to issues do have a significant impact on situational outcomes. By shifting his gaze from local (equality) to global (peace) leadership Mandela was able to open doors for the people of South Africa to an opportunity they had denied themselves for generations. However, global businesses must respect local traditions of local markets if they are to survive.

The difference between global and local thinking can be applied in personal, business as well. A person whose interest is narrowed to self is unlikely to share much with anyone else. A business that is focused on beating the competition is unlikely to realize its full potential. Is global thinking better than local thinking? There is a place for principles when the purposes are evil. And there is a place for ethics in diversity. Global thinking opens doors to possibility while local thinking allows for the profitable application of principles.

NGCL Team