Leadership theory is the approach to leadership that typecasts the leader as an individual with the vision and capacity to provide guidance and motivation to others towards a common goal. These theories hold that successful leaders have certain traits, behaviors, and mindsets that make them unique and effective. Let’s explore some key leadership theories:

1. LEARN FROM THE BOOK>>
LEADERSHIP THEORY
Leadership is the action of leading a group of people or an organization. It involves guiding
and impacting outcomes, enabling groups to work together to accomplish what they couldn’t do
individually. Leadership is not something people are born with; it is a skill that can be learned.
Effective leaders focus on observable behaviors, which lead to measurable outcomes. Four
types of behavior account for 89 percent of leadership effectiveness:
1. Being supportive

2. 2. Operating with a strong results orientation
3. Seeking different perspectives
4. Solving problems effectively1
.
Leadership is not limited to formal positions; many people exercising leadership have no formal
authority. It’s about actions, not just words. Leadership strategies must reflect each
organization’s context and stage of evolution. The key to unlocking shifts in behavior lies in
focusing on mindsets and showing up with integrity as our authentic selves. Leadership is
evolving beyond traditional management styles, emphasizing holistic organizational health and
stakeholder value creation12
.
Leadership theories seek to explain how and why certain people become leaders. These
theories focus on the characteristics of leaders and attempt to identify behaviors that people can
adopt to improve their own leadership abilities in different situations. Let’s explore some major
leadership theories:
1. “Great Man” Theories:
○ These theories propose that great leaders are simply born with inherent
qualities such as charisma, confidence, intelligence, and social skills.
○ The term “Great Man” was used because, historically, leadership was often
associated with male qualities, especially in military contexts.
2. Trait Theories:
○ Trait theories focus on identifying specific traits or characteristics that
distinguish leaders from non-leaders.
○ They assume that certain traits (such as intelligence, self-confidence, and
determination) make people better suited for leadership roles.
3. Contingency Theories:
○ Contingency theories emphasize that effective leadership depends on
situational factors.
○ Different situations require different leadership styles, and the most effective
leaders adapt their behavior accordingly.
4. Situational Theories:
○ Situational theories propose that the most effective leadership style depends on
the specific situation and the needs of the group.
○ Leaders must adjust their approach based on the context.
5. Behavioral Theories:
○ Behavioral theories focus on observable behaviors rather than inherent traits.
○ They suggest that effective leadership can be learned and developed through
specific behaviors.
○ Examples include the Ohio State Studies (considering initiating structure and
consideration) and the University of Michigan Studies (focusing on
employee-oriented and production-oriented behaviors).
6. Transactional Leadership:
○ Transactional leaders focus on rewarding or punishing followers based on their
performance.

3. ○ They emphasize clear structures, rules, and exchanges.
7. Transformational Leadership:
○ Transformational leaders inspire and motivate followers by creating a vision and
encouraging personal growth.
○ They focus on long-term goals and empower others to achieve them.
8. Servant Leadership:
○ Servant leaders prioritize the needs of their followers and aim to serve others
first.
○ They foster collaboration, empathy, and ethical behavior.
Remember that effective leadership is multifaceted, and different theories offer valuable insights
into how leaders can inspire, guide, and influence their teams123
.

4. LEARN FROM THE BOOKS >>