Question

Traits or Skills? What Kind of Leader?

Theories of leadership, including the traits, skills, style, situational, contingency, path-goal, leadership-member exchange, transformational, servant, and authentic theories of leadership.

Contemplate the "traits" and "skills" approaches of leadership . Given this analysis, please post about a public sector leader who is best explained by the traits approach to leadership and a public sector leader who is best explained by the skills approach to leadership, and explain how they exemplify the approaches mentioned above to leadership. And do you share the opinion of those who say that traits and skills create the best leader and that traits cannot be completely eliminated? and why? with examples.

Answer 1

The traits approach focuses on inherent traits that make someone a good leader, while the skills approach suggests that leadership skills can be developed. Mahatma Gandhi exemplifies the traits approach with his charisma and strong moral values, while Angela Merkel exemplifies the skills approach with her strategic thinking and decision-making skills. Leadership effectiveness is influenced by various factors, and effective leaders can possess a combination of traits and skills.

Step-by-step explanation:

The traits and skills approaches are two different theories of leadership that focus on different aspects of a leader's characteristics. The traits approach suggests that certain inherent traits or characteristics make someone a good leader, while the skills approach suggests that leadership skills can be developed through training and experience.

An example of a public sector leader who is best explained by the traits approach is Mahatma Gandhi. Gandhi possessed traits such as charisma, determination, and strong moral values, which allowed him to inspire and mobilize people in the Indian independence movement. These qualities exemplify the traits approach to leadership.

An example of a public sector leader who is best explained by the skills approach is Angela Merkel, the former German Chancellor. Merkel demonstrated strong leadership skills such as strategic thinking, decision-making, and negotiation, which helped her navigate complex political situations and lead effectively. These skills exemplify the skills approach to leadership.

I do not share the opinion that traits and skills create the best leader and that traits cannot be completely eliminated. While certain traits and skills can contribute to a person's leadership abilities, leadership effectiveness is influenced by various factors such as the situation, followers, and organizational culture. Effective leaders can possess a combination of traits and skills, and it is important to develop and adapt these attributes based on the specific context.