This document discusses different leadership theories including trait theory. Trait theory assumes that leaders possess certain innate traits that differentiate them from non-leaders. Hundreds of studies attempted to identify important leadership traits but results were disappointing as exceptions were often found. While some leaders share traits like intelligence and self-confidence, it is difficult to define a specific set of traits that all leaders possess.

1. LEADERSHIP

2. WHAT IS LEADERSHIP?
•The ability to influence people toward the
attainment of organizational goals.
•Is the use of noncoercive influence to shape the
group’s or organization’s goals, motivate behaviour
toward the achievement of those goals, and help
define group or organization culture.

3. LEADER
•People who can influence the behaviours of others
without having to rely on force.

4. LEADERSHIP THEORY
McGregor’s Theory X & Theory Y
Trait Theory

5. MCGREGOR’S THEORY X AND
THEORY Y

6. TRAIT THEORY
•This approach assumed that some basic trait or set
of traits differentiated leaders from nonleaders. If
those traits could be defined, potential leaders
could be identified.

7. TRAIT THEORY

8. TRAIT THEORY

9. TRAIT THEORY
•Some traits include: intelligence, assertiveness,
above-average height, good vocabulary,
attractiveness, self-confidence, and similar traits.
•Assumes leaders are born rather than made.

10. TRAIT THEORY
•Hundreds of studies were conducted in an attempt
to identify important traits. For the most part, the
results were disappointing. For every set of leaders
who possessed a common trait, a long list of
exceptions was also found, and the list of
suggested traits soon grew so long that it had little
practical value.

11. TRAIT THEORY
•It was observed that many leaders have good
communication skills and are assertive. Rather
than those traits being the cause of leadership,
however, successful leaders may begin to display
those traits after they have achieved leadership
positions.