In the 2009 revision of his classic text, "On Becoming a Leader," Warren Bennis notes that a Google search on "lack of leadership" resulted in 53.3 million hits, an increase from 27,000 in 2003. In light of the economic, political, international, business and personal crises facing our world right now, imagine how high the number would be today.

We've all witnessed the self-serving style of our political leaders who seemingly can't agree with someone of the other party on anything other than agreeing to disagree. We're living through the repercussions of the selfish decisions made by senior officers who have bankrupted their own companies while enriching themselves. And, how about the many examples of callous indifference on the part of corporate executives regarding the tragedies caused by their products?

Unfortunately, our industry isn't the exception that proves the rule. There are many stories of insurance organizations (carriers, marketers and agencies) that, because of poor leadership choices, no longer have the respect they once did.  Many aren't even in business anymore. Sadly, the impact of this gaping lack of leaders is measured in the lives of individuals and families who are without the income formerly provided by these failing and failed institutions.