ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the competency approach to leadership, and examines the differences between the vertical and horizontal approaches to leadership competence. It discusses the critical competencies needed for effective leadership in colleges and universities. Competency-based approaches to leadership emphasize the ability of successful leaders to acquire a portfolio of knowledge and skills that they can apply strategically in a particular context or situation. Some leadership competencies are position specific, but many others are more general in their applicability. In the context of higher education, the vertical approach begins with the assumption that a unique set of disciplinary, technical, and college-and university-specific competencies is needed for effective leadership. The horizontal approach begins with the assumption that a general set of competencies is critical for effective leadership in any range of sectors, disciplinary/technical areas, or institutional settings or positions. Four major skills make up emotional intelligence, with competencies in each quadrant, including self-awareness, self-management, social awareness and relationship management.
