Cabrera and Unruh (2012)
describe a global leader as one with
three characteristics: A global mindset, global entrepreneurship, and global
citizenship. A global mindsets is cognizant of political and other strategic
societal realities across cultures, and it is able to connect with people
globally. A global entrepreneurship is able to provide solutions that respond
to needs and taps from resources cross culturally, it is able to create “global
solutions”. Finally a global citizenship is a responsible attitude of preserving
the interests and benefits of people across the boundaries of countries and
continents, it contributes to enhancing individuals and communities across cultures.
One example of a global leader
could be Reed Hastings, the CEO of Netflix. Hastings was able to initiate a
video rental and media streaming company in 1997 that is now aiming to conquer
the world. Indeed, Lapoix & Silly (2014) report that after North and South America,
Nordic counties, the UK, Ireland, and the Netherlands, Netflix is now
strategizing to enter the French and the German markets. Lapoix and Silly
report that since last December, Hastings keeps sending strategic top managers
to the French Presidency and Government with an objective: connect, explain,
and listen. And it is not today that Hastings started cultivating a global mindset.
After studying mathematics in the university followed by a short experience in
the Marines, he spent three years teaching mathematics in a village called
Hhelehhele in Swaziland. Global leaders indeed learn to see the world with the
eyes of others, and learn from various perspectives.
The perfect example I find in
the Bible is that of Jesus himself. His leadership perspective is more than
Global, it is timeless and universal. He demonstrated a global mindset by coming
to live with humans and share their condition and their emotions though being
God. He also demonstrated global entrepreneurship because the salvation He
offers serves “across cultures”. Finally, Jesus’ leadership is the perfect
example of global citizenship and life enhancement. It saves humanity and gives
Joy to God and to His kingdom. Indeed, the parable of the prodigal son (Luke
15:11-24) clearly illustrates how God and his Kingdom on their side also rejoice
when a human is saved. Jesus’ entrepreneurial initiative of salvation is the
most value-adding business ever; it is life-recreating.
References
Cabrera, A., & Unruh, G. (2012). Being
global: How to think, act, and lead in a transformed world. Boston, Mass: Harvard Business Review Press
