Trait
Theory of Leadership
The trait theory is one of the
oldest theories in existence seeking to describe great leadership. It developed
off the great man theory which was popularized by the Scottish philosopher &
teacher Thomas Carlyle in the 1840s.
Later 1974 Kelly was described this theory and there was an attempt to classify what
personal characteristics such as physical , mental and relating to personality are
associated with the success of leadership.
There are some characteristics
that determine a good leader:
·
Personality
·
Charisma
·
Self confidence
·
Achievement
What is Trait Theory…
The Trait theory of Leadership is an early assumption that leaders are born
& due to this belief , those that possess the correct qualities &
traits are better suited to leadership. The resulting
lists of traits are then compared to those of potential leaders to assess their
both successful or unsuccessful. And also trait theorists are basically interested
in the measurement of traits , which can be defined as habitual patterns of
behavior ,thought & emotion.
How
ever the trait model of leadership is based on the characteristics of many
leaders both success of failure and is used to predict leadership
effectiveness.
Advantages of Trait
Theory…
·
It
is naturally pleasing theory
·
It
can be applied by people at all levels in all types of organizations.
·
It
gives a detailed knowledge and understanding of the leader element in the
leadership process.
·
It
is valid as lot of research has validated the foundation and basis of the
theory
·
It
serves as yardstick against which the leadership traits of an individual can be
assessed.
Limitations of
Trait Theory…
·
The
theory is very complex.
·
Traits
predict behavior better in “weak” than “strong” situations.
·
No
universal trait that predicts leadership in all situations.
·
The
list possible traits tends to be very long.
·
There
is also a disagreement over which traits
are the most important for an effective leader.
Practical
applications of the trait theory….
·
Use
assessment to identify and compare that traits that an individual posses and
use trait measures to assess your own characteristics.
·
Use
assessment tests to understand your strengths and weaknesses with regard to
leadership
·
Use
assessment to determine careers or development needs that fit your personality
& therefore offers a greater chance of success
·
Use
the assessment result to understand the traits that are good to have if one
aspires for a leadership position.
·
Identify
the areas in which you may want to get more training to enhance the levels.
Finally
we can identify that, the trait theories of leadership is the ability to
influence a group toward the achievement of a vision or set of goals.
References:
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