The Trait Theory is used in identifying the innate features that differentiate leaders from their followers. The theory's origins are not known, but is widely used because of its representation of a leader. A leader is supposed to have some inborn characteristics such as integrity, self-confidence, responsibility, motivational and social skills. In this case, one is expected to illustrate that they possess these innate traits for people to accept them as a leader. The limitation of this theory is that there is no provision of the definite leadership traits.
For a leader to understand how they are viewed by colleagues, the staff, and management, there is a need to have interrelationship skills. One should be an excellent listener and allow others to voice their issues openly. Positive attributes on the appraisal provide a basis for one to know their strengths and improve on them. One should seek ways of continuously advancing them. The elimination of the negative issues requires that one accepts their failure and introduces new ways of doing things; this requires commitment and self-discipline.
Basic Style Theory .
The theory was developed by the University of Michigan in the 1940's in which they argued that leaders can either be task- or person-oriented. Task-oriented individuals focus on the outputs while the person-oriented are concerned with having excellent relations with staff. Ohio University went on to state that a leader can be both task and person oriented, but with differing levels of concern. The Basic Style Theory is utilized in identifying whether one is a task- or a person-oriented type of leader.
A leader requires to fit into the changing situations that the position presents. At some point, confidence and aggressiveness are crucial to realize some targets. Additionally, excellent relations with the employees is important for a leader to be effective. Moreover, assertiveness training maybe essential in instances where an individual does not possess it naturally.