When you think of leadership, what springs to mind? Do you think of a particular person whom you feel has emulated the qualities that you look for in a leader? Or do you consider some of the traits that great leaders are known for - people who inspire, those who articulate their vision for an organization well, or perhaps those who have taken a bad or problematic situation and overcame the odds to lead a group of people to success.

There's been a lot of buzz lately about leadership, particularly as the economy shows signs of recovery and companies look to growth - and the people who will lead them to it. When considering leadership, including identifying and grooming would-be future leaders, it begs the question as to whether leadership can be taught. Much has been written already on this topic, and I agree with some authors who have argued that leadership can be taught, to some degree.