TRUE OR FALSE: Leaders are born, not made.

FALSE. Warren Bennis was quoted in 2006 as saying, “The most dangerous myth is that leaders are born—that there is a genetic factor to leadership, that people have certain charismatic qualities or not. That’s nonsense. Leaders are made rather than born.” While it’s true that some people have more of the inherent qualities associated with leadership than others, the traits can be further developed. And those who have few inherent qualities can gain a fundamental grasp of the basics, thereby improving their leadership competencies. Unfortunately there is also the ironic fact that while leadership can be learned, it cannot be taught (per se). Yes, skills and competencies can be taught, but the actual development of leadership comes from experience ....