Trait theory
Trait leadership theory says that certain relatively stable personal qualities like intelligence, confidence, honesty, and decisiveness differentiate leaders from non-leaders and make them more effective in influencing others.
Concept in simple terms
- Trait theory focuses on who the leader is (personality and character) rather than what the leader does or the situation faced.
- Traits are seen as stable patterns of behaviour, thought, and emotion that remain fairly constant across time and situations.
- It assumes that people high on key traits (e.g. confidence, emotional stability, communication skills) are more likely to emerge and succeed as leaders.