Pros and Cons of Trait Theory

The basis for the leadership trait articles is success is not a measurement of a successful leader and traits alone are not sufficient enough for successful business leadership—they are only a precondition. Leaders who possess the requisite traits must take certain actions to be successful (e.g. formulating a vision, role modeling, setting goals). Some of the traits “Leadership: Do Traits Matter?” refers to are drive, motivation, honesty/integrity, self-confidence, and knowledge. “Leadership in the Service of Hospitality” talks about how these leadership theories have changed over time. As our industry does, it is imperative that leadership styles and the theories that surround them adapt as well.

Pros:

• Traits are only beneficial if they are used frequently. Without practice, these traits are almost nonexistent.

• Some people are natural born leaders; some develop into leaders. As I’ve mentioned in a previous blog, some leaders are products of life lessons and experiences.

Cons:

• A leader cannot be defined by traits he/she has. They must be defined by their skills, their vision, and their ability to implement and inspire others through their vision.

• Not all leaders are the same. You cannot judge ever leader based on following the same criteria of traits, skills, and experiences. What makes one person a leader in the industry, might be missing by another.