19. Preparing for Turning Leadership into a True Profession

Since many skeptics argue that leadership cannot be turned into a true profession, there is reason to outline measures on how it would be possible to accomplish such a transformation. In this chapter a few preparatory measures are suggested, which could assist in creating better conditions for the actual professionalization process. These measures generally focus on updating the general understanding of “leadership” and giving leaders and leadership a better reputation. More specifically, the measures being suggested are: (1) a temporary status reduction of leaders and leadership; (2) a thorough exploration of alternative meanings of “leadership”; (3) that bachelor programs in leadership are given by higher education institutions around the world; and (4) the (re-) installment of dual career paths.