Four Leadership Theories

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Four Leadership Theories Abstract Despite numerous leadership studies, and the development of a multitude of theories over time, the concept of leadership continues to be elusive and difficult to understand. Leadership theories generally fall into one of six categories according to the research approaches underlying each theory: trait, behavior, power and influence, situational, charismatic, and transformational. The four theories discussed below represent the categories of trait, behavior, situational, and transformational theories. Each section contains a brief overview of the theory, notes about similarities and differences between the theories, and contemporary applications. Leadership, while a varied and multifaceted concept, shares characteristics across all situations regardless of the business or the people involved. In all instances, leadership involves the ability to influence, inspire, and support others to contribute toward the effectiveness and success of their respective organizations (Miner, 2002). As leadership roles require different types of people in different forms in different organizations, studying the similarities and differences between leadership approaches may help aspiring leaders find the model that best fits personal and organizational goals. Leaders must give employees an idea of the market forces at work today and the responsibility all employees must take in shaping the future (Heifetz & Laurie, 2003). Following is a brief overview of four leadership models: Level 5 Leadership, Results-Focused Leadership, Contingency Theory, and Servant Leadership. Trait Theory: Level 5 Leadership Jim Collins in Good to Great (2005) explores the concept of Level 5 leadership, in which “an individual blends extreme personal humility with intense personal will.” Collins claims that a Level 5 leader at the apex of the

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