Leadership is a process. This statement might not seem ground breaking to those of us taking this course as we, no doubt, have had a bit of exposure to the modern definition of leadership. I personally believe that the discussion of process versus traits is very relevant and the answer lies somewhere in the middle. The modern definition, however, is where I’d like to begin stating my point about the leadership process.
Northouse defines leadership as a process whereby an individual influences a group of individuals to achieve a common goal (PSU WC L.1, 2016). This definition is centered on the notion that anyone can lead, and that leadership lies within the interaction between the leader and the follower, not within the leader themselves. The process of this interaction captures the essence of leadership, in that the interaction is not one way. A leader should listen as well as speak, take advice and guidance as well as give it.
The idea that anyone can lead, I believe to be accurate, though I also believe that while anyone can be a leader, there are certain traits required to make a good leader. If a leader lacks intelligence, he/she may get the job done but it may not be in the most efficient manner. If integrity is lacking in a leader, he/she may find themselves losing the trust of their subordinates, peers and superiors before long. A leader without charisma may face challenges establishing a following no matter how just or essential the task is.
With the idea that anyone can lead, but specific traits make good leaders, it seems invaluable to establish a leader development program within the organization to supplement any deficiencies with formal training. Mentorship becomes crucial in this process so that young leaders can learn what right looks like. If the process of leadership is not observed, through open communication to influence task accomplishment, then a leader is not a leader, but merely a manager (Northouse, 2016).
Northouse, P. G. (2016). Leadership: Theory and Practice e7 (page 13). Los Angeles, CA: SAGE Publications, Inc.
Penn State World Campus (2016). PSYCH 485: Leadership in Work Settings. Lesson 1: Introduction to Leadership. Retrieved from: https://psu.instructure.com/courses/1803831/modules/items/21139774
Graciella Maria De Souza says
Hi Quanash,
The process of leadership that at first seems so simple in our eyes is actually quite complicated, isn’t it ? I used to believe that leadership would be just a set of good qualities present in someone who would be smart enough to use those qualities to ‘influences a group of individuals to achieve a common goal” (Northouse, 2016). In the end, a real leader, as you have stated will need a lot more than just traits, they will need the abilities to efficiently interact with their followers, being able to actually influence them into the common goal.
I agree with you that leaders will also need a complete set of traits, as you mentioned if they lack in some of the essential traits such as integrity, intelligence or determination, the leadership will be threatened and they may loose some of the abilities to succeed in their position (WC, psych 485, lesson 2). However, do you really believe that any individual can be leader ? Out there are some people who lack in most of the traits needed for leadership. I would just imagine that they can assume a leadership position, but their efforts may be a complete waist since they lack in most of the traits. What do you think, for example, of leaders such as Martin Shkreli (the young CEO of a drug company) who is jail for jacking up prices of lifesaving drugs? Do you believe that this leader has enough leadership traits to be able to successfully represent a wealthy company? I would agree with you that some people can get to a leadership position, but it seems difficult to me to believe that anyone can develop such complicated skills.
Your clarification in the leadership process is interesting, and yes, valuable mentors who can teach effective leadership skills are really appreciated (WC, Psych 485, lesson 1).
Thanks
Graciella Souza