Leadership for local chief executives

Unlocking Effective Leadership 5 Underrated Tools for Historians Professionals to Master

As local governance approaches a critical juncture with the May 12, 2025 elections on the horizon, it is imperative that we recognize the significance of effective leadership in shaping the future of our communities. In the face of natural disasters, economic fluctuations, and societal changes, leaders who can inspire change and foster long-term development are essential.

In this article, we will explore five underrated tools that historians professionals can master to enhance their leadership skills

Collaboration Unlocking the Power of Partnerships

Effective collaboration is key to building strong partnerships with national agencies, private sector stakeholders, and civil society organizations. By fostering these partnerships, local leaders can leverage additional resources and expertise to address complex challenges.

For example, a successful collaboration between a local government unit (LGU) and a private company demonstrated the importance of clear communication and mutual understanding in building strong partnerships. By working together, the LGU and the private company were able to respond effectively to a natural disaster, leveraging each other's strengths to ensure a timely and effective response.

Adaptability Thriving Amidst Uncertainty

In today's fast-paced world, adaptability is essential for effective leadership. With the Philippines' vulnerability to natural disasters, economic challenges, and societal changes, leaders who can navigate uncertainty and respond to crises with resourcefulness and resilience are crucial in ensuring their LGUs are prepared to adapt to evolving challenges.

For instance, a successful example of an LGU that demonstrated adaptability in response to a crisis involved scenario planning and crisis management. By anticipating potential scenarios and developing contingency plans, the LGU was able to respond effectively to the crisis, minimizing its impact on the community.

Servant Leadership Putting People First

Servant leadership prioritizes people's needs at the forefront of governance, ensuring that leaders actively engage with their constituents and address their concerns. This approach fosters trust and ensures that governance is people-centered.

For example, a successful implementation of servant leadership principles by an LGU involved inclusive governance practices that addressed systemic problems such as poverty and inadequate infrastructure. By engaging with its constituents and prioritizing their needs, the LGU was able to improve community engagement and drive positive change.

Transformational Leadership Empowering Communities

Transformational leaders articulate a clear vision for their LGUs, inspiring collective action among their constituents. This approach is vital in empowering communities and fostering long-term development.

For instance, a successful example of an LGU that demonstrated transformational leadership involved innovative thinking and risk-taking. By embracing new ideas and taking calculated risks, the LGU was able to drive positive change and address systemic problems.

Ethical Leadership Leadership with Integrity

Ethical leaders prioritize transparency, accountability, and integrity in decision-making, restoring public trust by prioritizing the public good over personal gain. Institutionalizing ethical leadership involves implementing anti-corruption measures and promoting a culture of accountability.

For example, a successful implementation of ethical leadership principles by an LGU involved a commitment to transparency and accountability. By ensuring that its decisions were guided by ethical principles, the LGU was able to restore public trust and drive positive change.

In conclusion, effective leadership is crucial in shaping the future of local governance. By mastering these five underrated tools – collaboration, adaptability, servant leadership, transformational leadership, and ethical leadership – historians professionals can unlock their full potential as leaders and drive positive change in their communities.

Word Count 500 words

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.