James McGregor Burns stated “leadership is the most observed and misunderstood phenomena on the planet.” He wrote that in 1978, 36 years ago.

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Confusing then, it’s more complicated now.

When companies decide to expand into Asia, talent challenges are always bandied about. Every year the Conference Board ask CEO’s “What’s your biggest challenge?”

The answer is usually talent –or lack of talent in Asia.

But that’s not necessarily true. Opportunities abound for talent in Asia, but only if you’re viewing it through the right prism. Asia holds over half the world’s population. A growing middle class coupled with young, educated, and highly mobile talent, estimated to be over 350 million, larger than the entire United States.

If leadership is misunderstood, I’d also add that it is often skewed as “Western”.

Is there really a lack of talent, or do we simply not see the obvious? Are we making rash decisions based on unsupported assumptions on how good talent should look or talk? Why do some very talented people, with advanced degrees, solid performance and loyal teams, not move ahead?

The truth is that leadership today looks different. The way we work is different. Globalisation and technology will continue to impact organisations. Intuitively we know this, but organisationally we lag behind.

Leadership now and in the future must change. We need to re-shape corporate thinking and change processes to reflect this fundamental shift. Forcing employees into pre-fabricated frameworks does not work. Hiring talent based on preconceived notions of ‘what works for me’ will result in picking people like ourselves.

During talent selection and promotion meetings, assess the character of the individual before passing judgement. Take time to appreciate differences, don’t veer towards the one who looks or acts like you.