Page 108 - SBL Integrated Workbook STUDENT 2018
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Chapter 10
What makes an effective leader?
2.1 Trait theories
Many great leaders were considered to have:
physical traits, such as drive, energy, appearance and height
personality traits, such as adaptability, enthusiasm and self-confidence
social traits, such as co-operation, tact, courtesy and administrative ability.
Other desirable features in leaders who are ‘born not made’ include:
above-average intelligence
initiative – independence and inventiveness and the capacity to perceive a need
for action
motivation
self-assurance and self-confidence
the ‘helicopter factor’ – the ability to rise above the particulars of a situation and
perceive it in relation to the surrounding context
other ‘essential’ qualities included enthusiasm, sociability, integrity, courage,
imagination, determination, energy, faith, even virility.
Problems with trait theories:
There will always be counter arguments.
2.2 Behavioural/style theories
The essence of leadership style theories is that a successful leader will exhibit a
pattern of behaviour (i.e. 'style') in gaining the confidence of those they wish to lead.
Style is a difficult factor to measure or define. The style of a manager is essentially
how he or she operates, but it is a function of many different factors.
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