The management theory of Burt Nanus focuses on the leadership requirements necessary for non-profits. Nanus's management theory states that training people for leadership in the non-profit sector is essential, because leadership requirements in non-profits are very different than those for for-profits.

Burt Nanus is one of the well-known visionary leadership theorists. He defines vision as being realistic, credible, attractive and in the future. It must be realistic, so that the vision is possible; it must be credible so that the vision is attainable and it must be attractive so that people will work with you to help meet this future objective or goal.

1. Burt Nanus believes that great leaders are made and not born.

2. Nanus's theory states that the right vision creates enthusiasm, excellence, high performance and high standards through an attractive, realistic, credible future.

3. Leadership functions as the standard for excellence and inspires staff to give better, more committed performance.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Study Burt Nanus and visionary leadership

'Leaders Who Made a Difference' is one of Burt Nanus's books and helped make his reputation. Check out what others had to say about it.

I recommend: Robert O. Zdenek's insightful review of Nanus's book at the National Housing Institute includes a breakdown of the visionary theory. Business Summaries extrapolates key insights from Nanus's book "Leaders" (co-authored with Warren Bennis).

See how the Burt Nanus management theory affects others and where it's applied

Burt Nanus is not a high-profile management guru; however, his theories are used by leaders and other management thinkers.

I recommend: Southwest Educational Development Laboratory research on leadership references Nanus's work frequently. A 1986 article by C. Stephen Scheneman in the Journal of Extension discusses the empowerment aspect of Nanus's work.

Consider how Nanus's management theory works in the real world

Burt Nanus does consulting for wide-ranging clients. Other management experts use his work as a springboard into deeper aspects of management issues. Low profile or not, Nanus is a real presence in the field of management theories.

I recommend: Burt Nanus consults with the Lauridsen Group. His firm does consulting work and training. Lauridsen also has programs, where Nanus's theories are studied. If you are looking for more information, the Free Library, in its discussion of Warren Bennis, discusses Burt Nanus's contributions.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Burt Nanus believes leadership in non-profits requires a charismatic style of leadership skills while emphasizing that the standard of excellence is for society, not for profit. Nanus's visionary leadership theories for non-profits include fund raising, which is one of the functions of non-profit leaders, and vision in that case is essential.