1. Trait Approach AGED 3153

2. Thought of the day… Leadership is a combination of strategy and character. If you must be without one, be without the strategy. ~ General H. Norman Schwarzkopf

3. Overview Defining traits Historical shifts in trait perspective Great person theories Leader traits How the trait approach works

4. Defining Traits TraitsTraits –Distinguishing qualities or characteristics of a person –Physical –personality –ability Character is the result of all your traits.

5. Historical shifts in trait perspective Early 1900s 1930-50s1970’s - Early 90sToday Great man theories Traits interacting with situational demands Revival of critical role of traits in leader effectiveness Charismatic & visionary Identifying qualities of great people Included situational impact Role of traits on effective leadership

6. Great Man Theories One of the first systematic attempts to study leadership “Great Man” theories –Focused on identifying qualities/ characteristics possessed by great leaders

7. Great Man Theories Traits differentiated leaders from followers Why did people readily accept the trait theory of leadership?

8. 5 Major Leadership Traits 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

9. Major Leadership Traits –Intellectual ability –Not too far beyond the group –Ability to be certain about one’s competencies and skills –Helps you feel right about your attempts to influence others –Desire to get the job done –Initiative, persistence, dominance & drive

10. Major Leadership Traits –Quality of honesty and trustworthiness –Inspires confidence in others –Received a lot of attention recently –Inclination to seek out pleasant social relationships –Good interpersonal skills and create cooperative relationships

11. Big Five Personality Factors NeuroticismNeuroticism –Tendency to be depressed, anxious, insecure, vulnerable, hostile ExtraversionExtraversion –Tendency to be sociable and assertive, positive energy OpennessOpenness –Tendency to be informed creative, insightful, curious AgreeablenessAgreeableness –Tendency to be accepting, conforming, trusting, nurturing ConscientiousnessConscientiousness –Tendency to be thorough, organized, controlled, dependable, decisive

12. Focus of Trait Approach Leader-centered Concerned with what traits leaders exhibit and who has these traits Certain set of traits crucial to effective leadership –No recommendations other than to cultivate traits identified

13. Why do you support the trait approach?

14. What faults do you see with the trait approach?

15. Application Provides direction for aspiring leaders Through tests and questionnaires –individuals can determine whether they have the select leadership traits –pinpoint strengths & weaknesses Can be used to assess where one stands within an organization