How do theories of leadership provide practical advice on how to be an Essay

How do theories of leadership provide practical advice on how to be an effective leader Discuss, with reference to at least two theories or models of leadership - Essay Example Each of these theories is based on certain principles that have been used to define effective leaders. It is well known that there are individuals that have leaders naturally even without any form of training. However, there are those that require training in order for them to have leadership attributes. This essay will focus on the trait, behavioral and transformational theories of leadership. In addition, it will further address how these theories are applicable in practical leadership. Effective leaders naturally possess certain attributes that enables them to execute their roles effectively and efficiently. According to the trait theory, people are born or made to have certain qualities that facilitate their discharge of leadership roles. Ralph Stogdill advanced this theory in 1974 (Irvin 2007). An effective leader is obliged to exhibit certain traits such as being creative, have a sense of responsibility, be intelligent, be decisive, and have self-control among other important qualities. This theory argues that behavior modification is paramount for effective leadership. This indicates that a leader ought to conform to good values and attributes that will enable them to discharge their roles effectively. Through an analysis of the mental, physical, and social attributes, a leader can be identified through the values and attributes they exhibit and encourage in their respective jurisdictions. Upon the realization of the general traits that makes successful leader s, it becomes very easy to identify potential leaders. This indicates that an individual that endeavors to be an effective leader will strive to cultivate leadership values (Epstein 2010, p.7). Several traits have been identified as influencing the effectiveness of a leader. If such traits are embraced they can help a leader become more effective. While advancing the trait theory, Stogdill conducted a study in which he identified ten types of traits that are associated with effective leaders.