There are many contradictory theories, models and books which debate whether leaders are born or made. Trait theorists Carlyle (1841) and later Galton argued than great leaders had traits or characteristics that were unique to them and could not be developed.
Kouzes and Posner then attempted to give a definitive list of 10 key leadership qualities after surveying 630 managers. This list itemized what staff wanted from a manager not want they actually got!
The Kouzes and Posner list contained:
1. Honest
2. Forward looking
3. Inspirational
4. Competent
5. Fair minded
6. Supportive
7. Broad minded
8. Intelligent
9. Straight forward
10. Dependable
These 10 qualities were then used to develop their Leadership Challenge Model
Ralph Stogdill looked at this notion another way in that leadership qualities are difficult to define - the ‘je ne sais quoi’ factor - having a skill and knowing what to do with it are two different things.
For me leaders learn by:
• ‘Mirroring’ behaviors they have seen others use
• Learning by ‘trial and error’
• Picking it up ‘on the job’
• Moving from transactional to transformational practice
We expect a lot from our leaders and the main quality for me is that they are able to adapt to ever changing environments whilst ensuring staff have 'leadership stability'.
Any thoughts?
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