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| Prof Yvonne du Plessis |
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| Me and Robert Maropa, Director of UP Libraries |
Prof Yvonne du Plessis gives what may have been an otherwise monotonous presentation, a very humorous, engaging edge. She really knows how to stimulate an interest in the topic of leadership and I think that her strong Afrikaner accent definitely adds to the humour. Today I learned the core definition of leadership and how I could enhance this skill in the workplace. It is persuading other people to set aside their personal differences and individual concerns and to pursue a common goal that is important for the welfare of the institution. Leadership is essentially, persuasion, not domination. This function is not necessarily fulfilled by one person. It can be shared and is a social phenomenon. In addition, the leader must ensure that a goal is reached and has to be influential and should be able to motivate others. Managers are in charge and delegate, whereas leaders influence and guide others to follow.
Robert Marope, Director of Libraries at the University of Pretoria, paid us a surprise visit. He contributed to the lecture by explaining that leadership roles take place at different levels in the organisation. It was indeed an honour to meet him. For me, the most important term I learned today is "empathy" and how I should practice this trait when trying to understand staff in conflict situations.
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