Who said leadership was easy? Standing up means you get criticised. It's not easy but it's important.

It is said that 63% of employees do not trust in their leaders (Forbes). The Deloittes report on Millennials notes that the majority of leaders do not work along ethical grounds. But, like all things of course, it is just not that simple.

Leadership has been called into question and yet it plays such an important role in our daily lives. Most leaders strive to make a difference but often face many pressures and much criticism and challenges.

No one ever said leadership was an easy position to hold. It has always been the case but most especially in the modern and transparent world in which we live – standing up and being different will invariably lead to a division of opinion and criticism. Often it can be painful, mainly as many leaders know they too are on a journey of good, bad, learning and discovery.

However, ask any leader and very few will regret being a leader and taking up the privilege to lead. They will have felt the pains of the role but they will be proud of holding leadership positions. They have often strived to make a difference, create a positive change and empower those around them. It is important that we stand up for the importance of leadership and once again inspire young people and those who may have lost their way or their passion to want to aspire to become leaders. Why? Research is telling us that increasing numbers do not trust in leaders and do not wish to hold leadership roles. It is understandable given the level of criticism but maybe the balance has not been right. Most hotel GM’s will feel privileged to lead their teams. They will enjoy the challenge of building a team and providing great service. Many great chefs love building great restaurants and strong brigades. Many execs are passionate about seeing those they have guided through climb the ladder to sometimes levels higher than they themselves have achieved.

Leadership is not for everyone but it is aspirational, one of the greatest of challenges and privileges and will define a person.

Below both Carrie Wicks, Founder of CAW Ventures, and Vince Pearson, NED Litmus Partnership, give insights into their careers and learnings.