Essay on Concept of Leadership and Theories

PEOPLE CULTURE AND
CONTEMPORARY LEADEERSHIP

TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION...........................................................................................................................1
What is leadership........................................................................................................................1
Questionnaires completed............................................................................................................1
Gibbs model learning...................................................................................................................2
Class activities.............................................................................................................................3
Own development areas...............................................................................................................3
Type of leader am I and areas of improvement...........................................................................4
CONCLUSION................................................................................................................................5
REFERENCES................................................................................................................................6
Appendix..........................................................................................................................................8
Appendix 1 Questionnaire...........................................................................................................8
Appendix 2 Learning Journal......................................................................................................8

INTRODUCTION
In the modern era, effective leadership skills play a vital role in growth and development
of an individual (Ward 2016). Nowadays, many businesses focus on enhancing the leadership
skills of workers so that smooth flow of all operations and activities can be achieved (Tourish
2014). Leadership practices also assist companies in motivating employees and directing their
efforts towards the accomplishment of common goals and objectives.
The present essay outlines the overview of leadership and theories linked with the
concept. In addition to this, my style of leadership and its effectiveness is also highlighted in this
report. I have used different types of questionnaires and classroom activities to analyze the
overall effectiveness of my leadership style.
What is leadership
Leadership can be defined as the process in which various tools, techniques, and
strategies are employed by a leader to lead and manage the team of people working in an
organization (Siegling, Nielsen & Petrides 2014). A good leader always encourages team
members to give their best towards the accomplishment of business goals and objectives. In
today’s corporate scenario, leadership has become essential for companies as there are different
types of benefits associated with the same (Renko et al. 2015). For example, leaders help in
initiating actions, motivating others, building morale and developing coordination among team
mates. A leader also plays vital role in designing and maintaining a healthy work environment by
resolving issues and conflicts between people working in an organization.
To gain insight into the overall concept of leadership, various theories can be taken into
consideration. For example, the trait theory of leadership emphasizes on the fact that leaders are
born, or there are certain qualities which are inherited by people which make them a leader
(Ramchunder & Martins 2014). Furthermore, the theory explains that there are certain behavioral
characteristics can be commonly found in almost every leader (Northouse 2015). Some common
traits of leaders which are highlighted by trait theory include energy, creativity, innovative,
business knowledge, honesty and emotional intelligence.
Questionnaires completed
I have completed different types of the questionnaire, and this was important because it
has helped me to get insight into my leadership style. I was required to answer different sets of
questions linked to various aspects of leadership. For instance, I was required to provide my
1

opinion to questions such as is supervision of employee within the workplace is essential or not.
In addition to this, the questionnaire has also supported me in identifying the key areas where I
was lacking. From the information collected, one strengthens his/her existing leadership skills,
and overcome key weakness concerning leadership (Nahavandi 2016).
Another benefit of using questionnaire is that it has helped me to improve the way in
which I used to communicate with others. Apart from this, it has also highlighted different tools
and strategies which I can use to motivate and inspire other staff members working with me. I
have completed various questionnaires linked with leadership, and now I can handle and manage
changes more efficiently. These all things will directly contribute to individuals overall
professional development and will also them to become a highly motivating leader in the long
run (Ljungholm 2014).
Gibbs model learning
The Gibbs model or reflective cycle emphasize on six major elements which are
mentioned below as:
Description- I have filled various questionnaires, and I have also attended different class
activities to gain insight into my existing leadership style and its effectiveness.
Feelings- At the time of attending class sessions and filling questionnaire I was a little bit
worried about getting negative outcomes. However, my experience and knowledge have
supported me in staying calm during the process.
Evaluation – It can be expressed that the entire experience was quite good and I have learned a
lot of things about the overall aspect of leadership. For example, it has supported me in knowing
that effective leaders are the one who changes their styles as per need and demand of the
situation.
Analysis- It has been analyzed that I am required to work in some areas to enhance my overall
leadership skills. It will also assist in getting better opportunities for personal and professional
development (Mugridge 2013).
Conclusion – Apart from attending class room sessions and filling up the questionnaire, I believe
that strategies such as feedback from seniors and coworkers would have been taken. The
rationale behind this is that the feedback would have provided me with more relevant and
accurate information about my leadership.
2