The skills approach tells us that “knowledge and abilities are needed for effective leadership” (Northouse, 2013, p.43). Those skills could include technical, human or conceptual skills, as in the three-skill approach, or problem-solving skills, social judgment skills, or knowledge, as in the competencies within the skills model. Communication skills may not be specifically mentioned, however they are critical in maintaining quality social and business relationships.
(RealGoesRight, 2013)
According to the article Social Skills for Successful Career Development, the author contends that both “rapid economic, social and technological changes have turned social skills into an absolute necessity for the achievement of a successful career” (Fragoulis & Phillips, 2011, p.85). As times change, leaders must learn to adapt to the needs of their industry, organization, and followers. Skills such as communication, leadership, flexibility, and adaptability skills are necessary for everyday tasks (Fragoulis & Phillips, 2011). One of the most valuable social skills as found in the research of Fragoulis and Phillips (2011) is communication skills. Communication is not necessarily a one-way proposition, but good leader must know the value of two-way communication skills. This includes more listening then speaking.
Employees should be able to “express clear and convincing messages and ideas and actively listen to their co-workers” (Fragoulis & Phillips, 2011, p. 87). Effective communication does not mean that conflict will never arise. As long as conflict is handled effectively, through good communication and conflict resolution, conflict can be resolved and have positive outcomes for the team. The researchers also found that flexibility and adaptability are valuable due the changes that occur in everyday business. As our social and business environment changes, we must continue to develop our social and communication skills to be successful.
Similarly, our lesson commentary suggests that social judgment skills are a critical part of the social approach. Our commentary quote Mumford et al. (2000) in detailing four specific skills that include “perspective taking (empathy), social perceptiveness (ability to read social cues), behavioral flexibility (ability to adapt solutions to changing circumstances), and social performance (persuasive ability)” (PSU World Campus, 2013, L4). These human skills are valuable in leadership.
The best part about the skills approach, is believing that a leader can learn communication skills if they do not possess them (PSU World Campus, 2013, L4). It is also believed, that a leader can strengthen and hone their skills to grow as a leader if desired. Acquiring the abilities to communicate is an active process that leaders must be willing to undertake for the sake of organizational sustainability.
References
Fragoulis I., Phillips N. Social Skills for Successful Career Development. Review of European Studies. 2011 June; 3:85-93.
Northouse, P.G. (2013). Leadership: Theory and Practice. Los Angeles: Sage.
PSU World Campus, (2014). Lesson Commentary 4: Skills Approach. Retrieved February 2, 2014, from: https://courses.worldcampus.psu.edu/sp14/psych485/001/content/04_lesson/01_page.html
RealGoesRight, (2013). Communication Is Key. Why Do We Keep Loosing It. Retrieved February 14, 2014, from: http://www.singleblackmale.org/2013/01/23/how-communication-affects-relationships/
Heather,
I enjoyed reading what you said about communication being a critical skill and a two way street. Many people (including myself) don’t realize how important it is to be not only a listener, but an active listener. I find myself waiting for someone else to finish speaking so I can put my two cents in, not even remotely listening to what they said. I like how you tied effective communication skills to what Mumford et. al have defined under the umbrella of “social judgment skills” (Northouse, 2013, p. 49-50). On the flip side, it certainly is difficult to work in an environment where communication is lacking, or selective bits of information are put forth. I think skills such as leadership can always be improved or sharpened, and people need to take the same approach with communication skills-that also is an ongoing process with room for enhancement.
References
Northouse, P.G. (2013). Leadership Theory and Practice (6th ed.). Thousand Oaks,
CA: SAGE Publications, Inc.