11.2: How personal traits are related to leadership Flashcards
What is the Great Man theory of leadership?
A 19th-century theory that suggests leaders are born, not made, and possess traits that make them more capable than followers.
How do personal traits relate to leadership according to modern research? (LO 11.2)
Traits matter in leadership but not in the way most people think. While they influence leadership emergence, they do not guarantee leadership effectiveness.
What does research say about the link between traits and leadership effectiveness?
Scientific reviews show that traits alone do not guarantee effective leadership; rather, what people do with these traits matters most.
What is the difference between leadership emergence and leadership effectiveness?
Leadership emergence refers to how likely someone is to be perceived as a leader, while leadership effectiveness relates to their actual ability to lead successfully.
What are key traits that contribute to leadership emergence?
Intelligence
Dominance
Sociability
Self-monitoring
High energy/drive
Self-confidence
Tolerance for ambiguity
Do the traits that contribute to leadership emergence make someone a more effective leader?
No, while these traits increase the likelihood of being perceived as a leader, they do not necessarily make someone an effective leader.
What is OB Myths 11.2, and what does it suggest about leadership relationships?
The myth states that leaders should keep others at a distance to avoid favoritism. Research, however, shows that strong leader-follower relationships are essential for engagement and productivity.