Four Approaches To Leadership

There are many definitions of leadership, nonetheless, the definition presented in this reading is well written. Leading people towards a common goal through influence is a succinct definition. Theories and discussion about leadership are numerous, however, this material was comprehensive and clear in concepts about the four approaches to leadership. The questionnaires at the end of each chapter provided great insight into the type of leadership role I play. To get a complete picture of my own leadership, I see my strengths and weaknesses in each of the approaches as illustrated by my results from the quizzes. Each approach imparts some knowledge as well as criticism and therefore, should be appropriately gauged. Certain traits are innate …show more content…
My skills inventory quiz depicted quite high scores in all three of the categories of technical skill, human skill, and conceptual skill. However, the lowest of the three scores was in human skills which confirms and coincides with the traits I carry. This is fascinating to show that this questionnaire was so accurate in accordance with my own insightfulness. Fortunately, skills can be learned and improved, unlike changing my traits, encouraging me to strive for improvement in the human skills area. In analyzing the “Skills Model of Leadership”, I would see myself as having all of the individual attributes of general cognitive ability, crystallized cognitive ability, motivation, and personality. Among the competencies, the area most lacking is the social judgment skills, although, extremely strong in problem-solving skills and knowledge. I believe that I prove to have substantial capabilities in the last category of leadership outcomes of performance and effective problem-solving. Social intelligence, and social perceptiveness are the challenges I face and it will behoove me to develop myself in this …show more content…
There are times when assumptions are made and the subordinate is thought to have more competency then is actual. In this situation, without proper direction, the leader can set the employee up to fail. It is important to communicate and first find out the competency level of an employee. Many times, during the training process, things are assumed to be known whether because of the educational or experiential background of the subordinate. This is a mistake I have made many times and would benefit in taking the time to get to know the competency and commitment level of the person first. This, once more, is the theme or pattern, it may seem I follow. Improvement in communication, social perceptiveness and behavioral flexibility would assist in my leadership