Personality Traits: Do they Define a True Leader?
We have always heard the phrases, “they are a born leader” or “they are leader of the pack”, so is it nature vs nurture that determines a good leader? We learned the trait approach is the natural or adaption of specific traits that are deemed necessary for a successful leader. It was once thought that good leadership traits were innate, but researchers are coming to believe that these leadership skills quite possibly can be learned. With that being said, is it truly possible that we already possess leadership skills, or must we acquire them through learning?
Again, the trait approach focuses specifically on the leader and allows them to focus on their own personal development and awareness as a leader to better themselves (Northouse, 2016). I personally believe that one of the most essential in the trait approach list is having the drive to lead, influence others and complete goals because without that drive or passion, how are you to effectively lead followers? Followers want a leader that they can trust, has compassion, provides hope and stability (Gallup, 2009). That’s why I believe that there are other important aspects of traits when it comes to leadership after drive, such as: communication skills, dependability and being empathetic. Communication skills are important because you must be able to articulate your ideas and message in a clear manner. Dependability is important so that those around you are can trust that you are consistent and reliable (Northouse, 2016). Lastly, being empathic shows that you can be relatable to your followers and others that you work with, which also helps to build more trust. Followers want a leader that is caring or else they will not be engaged in work or goal completion for their leader (Gallup, 2009).
So how are these traits obtained? Riggio (2009) simply states that leaders are mostly made; with one third born and the other two thirds made. I would agree with that statement since great leaders in the past did not necessarily have the education from leadership skill courses of today, to mold them into a great leader. They either had natural traits that led to their success or viewed other great leaders of their time and imitated them. In today’s age we are able to view more thoroughly what makes a good leader and what is effective to have individuals follow and look up to a leader. Riggio, also states that natural inborn traits of leaders are seen as high intelligence and extraversion, but that again most leaders are made so even those of average intelligence and introverted qualities can still become great leaders (2009).
It appears that leaders can be naturally born with the characteristics of a leader or acquire the traits through learning. Either way, their actions and accomplishments will prove their success or failure. On a final note this quote by Shakespeare may best answer the question as relative: “Some men are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them.”
Gallup, I. (2009, January 08). What Followers Want From Leaders. Retrieved January 17, 2018, from http://news.gallup.com/businessjournal/113542/what-followers-want-from-leaders.aspx
Northouse, P.G. (2016). Leadership: Theory and Practice. Los Angeles: Sage Publications.
Riggio, R. E. (2009, March 18). Leaders: Born or Made? Retrieved January 17, 2018, from https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/cutting-edge-leadership/200903/leaders-born-or-made
Edward W Klock says
I agree that leadership can be learned instead of having to be a natural born leader. Many of the trait s that coincide with the trait theory are capable of being learned over time. As a leader, I believe that it is imperative that they continue to grow and learn in order to be an even better leader.
I also agree that a leader should be intelligent although it can also hinder their leadership. A leader is only as good as their team and if a leader can not communicate with their followers because of the intelligence gap, it will hinder production. With that said, I think that you put together a well written and informative theory.
Great job