Assignment

• There are some who argue that leaders face unprecedented demands as we enter the 21st century. The pace of organizations is faster than ever due to technology advances and impatience in stakeholder groups. There is increased diversity due to globalization. The workforce is more nomadic; few people today spend their entire careers in a single company. This puts a lot of pressure on leaders and may demand new or evolved competencies.

Using the module readings, online library resources, and the Internet, including general organizational sources like the Wall Street Journal, BusinessWeek, or Harvard Business Review, research the demands facing 21st century leaders.

Then, respond to the following:

• What are the challenges facing leaders in today's environment? Consider both internal and external challenges within an organization.

• Describe the impact of those challenges on today's leaders. Explain how leaders need to respond to them.

• Discuss at least three-four core competencies that you think leaders need to be effective in today's environment. Explain how these competencies will address the challenges you identified.