Can someone become an effective leader without ever receiving formal leadership training?
In Part 2 of Episode 8, I continue my conversation with Dr. Lucy Tawidian – Assistant Professor at the American University of Sharjah, exploring how leadership is developed in academia – where technical expertise is cultivated extensively, but leadership is often learned through experience.
We discuss why many academics develop their leadership approach not through formal courses, but through observing mentors, learning from experience, and reflecting on the leaders who shaped their own journeys.
The conversation explores the qualities that emerged from those experiences, including empathy, patience, accountability, and the ability to support others through uncertainty.
We also discuss the unique challenges of leading peers, committees, and colleagues – particularly in environments where authority is less formal and influence depends on credibility and relationships.
Finally, we explore the role of culture in leadership.
How do leaders balance expectations, deadlines, and accountability while remaining sensitive to different cultural backgrounds, values, and personal circumstances?
Because effective leadership is not only about treating people fairly.
It is also about understanding that fairness sometimes requires understanding people differently.
If you’re interested in leadership effectiveness, mentorship, and leading across cultures, this conversation is for you.
The views expressed in this conversation do not reflect the institution’s opinions.
