Week Four

Behavioral and Situational Theories Blog

           

The behavioral theory composes of two important tenets: leadership can be learned, and predisposed traits do not make a leader, but rather leadership traits are learned. Basically a leader is not born, but rather a leader is made. We learn through trial and error how to be a leader. It’s hard pin point exactly what traits make a leader because not every leader is the same An example of this theory can be seen from situations where people are thrown into roles of leadership sometimes and they must learn over time and their mistakes how to be a good leader. The situational theory says that different situations demand different types of leadership and that a effective conforms to such situations. There are two types of situations that this theory applies to directing and coaching. When you are directing you have to tell others what to do and how to do things. You have to make important decisions and solve problems. This pertains more to the business world where the manager or person in charge must direct their team or members on how they want things done. The manager or person in charge must be able to solve problems and make vital decisions. When you are coaching there is two way communication with both you and your members discussing the situation, but ultimately you make the final decision. A coach does lead their team or members, but both parties has input in decisions pertaining to the team or group. A sports coach does have to tell their team what to do, but the team gets discuss alternative options with the coach.

The reading talks about a three-skill approach: technical, human, and conceptual. Technical skill is about having knowledge and proficiency about a certain work or activity. Technical skill applies to working in places such computer software companies where you must know how to program software and to use it. If you are a leader of such a company you must know the basics to teach people how to do their job and solve problems. Human skill requires the knowledge and ability to work with other people. Basically it’s a people skill that helps you work well with your peers and superiors and get your work done. Having good human skills as a leader helps you get people to work effectively and together. Conceptual skill is the ability to work with an idea. A leader must be able to understand the basic concept of a problem and formulate an idea to solve that problem. A manager must understand what the company wants and be able to work with that goal.

I have been in situations where I have had to learn to become a better leader at work. I started off not knowing my students and as time went on I figured ways to be a better tutor. I also have had to know the material (technical skill) that I am tutoring in to do my job.