Reflective Journal - Research Paper Example

Below are different leadership theories that I thought are most important for the understanding ofthis subject (Bolden et. al, 2003): 1. The Trait Approach to Leadership: This theory is adopted from the Great Man theory which suggests that leaders are exceptional people having innate attributes which ultimately make them a leader. According to this theory some of the traits most common in leaders are: friendliness, motivation, doing group tasks, emotional control and many others (Ricketts, 2009). 2. McGregor’s Theory X & Theory Y Manager: According to him, Theory X managers dislike work and would try to avoid it and that they will have to be forced to work.

Whereas Theory Y managers exhibit passion for work, self-direction and self-control to achieve goals. 3. The Hersey-Blanchard Model of Leadership: This model is based on situational perception of leadership. In my opinion a true leader can be identified when he or she is in a difficult situation. The theory states that there are two styles of leadership-Directive (one-way communication) and Supportive (interactive and mutual decision-making). The normative decision model was put forward by Victor Vroom and Phillip Yetton in 1973 and in the later years it was being modified by Victor with the collaboration of Arthur Jago.

The theory states that the situational factors play a more important role in the decisions that are being taken by a leader than the leadership behavior he / she has adopted. The theory talks about five different sets of strategies. Two of the strategies are of autocratic styles, two from the consultative styles and one from the group decision makings. The personality of the leader plays an important role in achieving excellent leadership and perfect decision-making in the job market. Some of the traits that are important for good leadership at work are: Vision: One role of the leader is to communicate the vision and