Trait Theories of Leadership

Leadership is defined as a person who shows a great deal of integrity, intelligence, extraversion, conscientiousness, self-esteem; and someone who is open to new experiences. Leadership roles are displayed every day in the workplace and organizations. Their roles of integrity and intelligence are used to insure the success of the operation. As a leader it is important to have good communication with your fellow management and employees. How you communicate with your employees determines how effective your leadership role is and provides a positive environment.

I am an administrative assistant for a for-profit institution in Southfield, MI. I have been employed with the institution for three years and have experienced many different styles of leaderships. The purpose of this report is to evaluate two different types of leadership roles in management. I will be using two managers from my job as examples to help demonstrate which role is most effective to operate a successful firm.

Mrs. Cooke was the vice president over the institution and provided all employees, peers and students with respect, honesty and patience. Her style of management is a prime example of Leader-Member trait theory of leadership. Leader- Member trait theory is defined as leadership that creates high level of trust in their relationship with their employees. The best quality about Mrs. Cooke’s management skills is that she displayed integrity. She was patient with her employees and demonstrated moral judgment. She was very compassionate about the well-being of her employees. Her open door policy made it easy for us to confine in her about issues in the workplace and even personal issues. Discussing the problems with Mrs. Cooke gave you a sense of confid...

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...n. My recommendation to her is in order to have a successful work environment; fear and punishment should not be a factor in motivating your employees.

The two managers influenced my idea on how to run a successful business. Ironically, I like both managers style of management. If I could rate which style was more motivating to me; I would agree with Ms. Fisher. Although, Ms. Fisher was very hard on her employees, we were motivated to prove her perception of us wrong and in result of that we discovered out talents and improved our skills. In conclusive, in order to be a respected leader, it begins with your employees and knowing their worth. When I become management I will display both characteristic of leader – member trait theory and the authentic theory. I will show interest in building a better company and also have a level of consideration for my employees.