Introduction
Chapter 2 concerns the trait approach, grounded in Classical Theories of Leadership, and proposes that excellent leaders possess innate characteristics. Numerous research on personality traits throughout the years have made it evident that various qualities contribute to effective leadership. Many of these studies have shown that intelligence, self-confidence, determination, integrity, and sociability are essential personality attributes (Northouse, 2015).
Discussion
Five-factor personality model has also been cited as a reliable source of leadership-predicting traits, such as extraversion, conscientiousness, and so on (Northouse, 2015). The premise of the trait approach is that desirable leadership qualities are inherited. This view holds that view, those who are born with a leadership talent are automatically qualified for positions of authority. According to the trait theory of leadership, a leader’s inherent tendencies emerge from the combination of their innate abilities and experiences. In contrast to other theories, the trait theory of leadership suggests that leaders may emerge from among us thanks to innate qualities. However, under the behavioral theory of leadership, for instance, one cannot become a leader without trying to acquire the necessary skills.
Regarding the text-to-self reflection, I credit this idea for broadening my perspective on how companies find and choose candidates for top leadership roles. Oftentimes, senior managers, recruiters, or electors are the ones who make the call on whether or not an applicant holds the necessary traits for a leadership position. Furthermore, an observer’s ability to appropriately infer a candidate’s personality and competency from their observed behavior may rely on their closeness to the candidate, their level of familiarity with the applicant, and their understanding of the candidate’s background and experience (Wyatt & Silvester, 2018). As a result, I have a deeper appreciation for the nuanced nature of the leadership pipeline and the qualities I will need to succeed.
Indeed, after learning about the trait approach, I started reflecting on my previous leadership encounters. In my experience, I found that being extroverted was significantly correlated with a propensity for leadership roles. Given that the group’s leader during group projects has historically been the most extroverted and confident member, it stands to reason that this trend will continue. However, I feel that the list of traits proposed by the theory is not exhaustive, as I noticed far more interesting patterns while interacting with people holding leadership positions. The traits of a leader cannot be held accountable for an individual’s whole character; thus, I think it would be helpful for trait theory to include the impact of external circumstances and experiences.
How you and others rate you as a leader may be gleaned from your Leadership Traits Questionnaire results. Using the graph, I could compare my thoughts to those of others and identify areas of agreement and disagreement. To assess my present leadership level, I have had several colleagues fill out a leadership attribute assessment about me. The majority of the feedback I got did not come as a surprise to me. My best evaluations and feedback were for diligence and empathy. I am delighted that my fellow colleagues think of me as dedicated, persistent, and compassionate. Leaders are selfless in their pursuit of the end goal and put the needs of those they lead ahead of their own.
Conclusion
Still, I was able to zero in on weaknesses, including the fact that some people do not believe I am very persistent. I am a very motivated person who sometimes has trouble with persistence and patience. One trait shared by those who have achieved success wherever in the globe, regardless of their field or culture, is a capacity for enduring hardship. Abraham Lincoln, Walt Disney, Colonel Sanders, and Helen Keller are just a few of our country’s finest leaders, owing to the fact that they refused to conform. An extensive body of work has investigated the elements that contribute to peak performance, and it can be boiled down to a three-part formula: talent, persistence, and effort (Eades, 2021). I have been inspired to adopt a more steady and strategic leadership style as a consequence of these evaluation outcomes.
References
Eades, J. (2021). 3 Proven Ways To Be More Persistent In Leadership. LinkedIn. Web.
Northouse, P. G. (2015). Leadership: Theory and practice. Sage Publications, Inc.
Wyatt, M., & Silvester, J. (2018). Do voters get it right? A test of the ascription-actuality trait theory of leadership with political elites. The Leadership Quarterly, 29(5), 609–621. Web.