Leadership: Theory and Practice identifies the five major leadership traits as intelligence, self-confidence, determination, integrity and sociability. (Northouse, 2016, p. 23). Of these traits, I believe the most important is integrity. Integrity is the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles. As a leader, it is imperative that you demonstrate loyalty, dependability and the highest moral character. If your followers do not believe you have integrity, it will be extremely difficult for you to garner …show more content…
Discuss why Emotional Intelligence is an important leadership trait?
Emotional intelligence is the ability to handle one's emotions and understand the emotions of others. This is a crucial trait for today's leaders. Having the capacity to control your emotions as a leader, enables you to make sound decisions. If leaders can separate their own emotional response out of the equation, they are much more likely to base their decisions on sound business principles. In addition, followers are more likely to respond favorably to leaders if they perceive that decisions are based on sound judgement as opposed to irrational emotional reactions.
Emotional intelligence is also an important trait for leaders to exhibit humanity. If a leader is approachable, empathetic and compassionate, employees will be more willing to talk and share issues with them. The more leaders know about what is going on within the organization as well as with the individual employees, the better job they can do and the more helpful they can be in problem solving situations. Therefore, emotional intelligence is one of the most important characteristics of a good leader and according to author Travis Bradberry, “decades of research now point to emotional intelligence as being the critical factor that sets star performers apart from the rest of the …show more content…
The Oxford Dictionary defines vulnerability as the state of being exposed to the possibility of being attacked or harmed, either physically or emotionally. The beauty of vulnerability is that it can also bring about connection, strength, support and growth. As individuals, we grow each time we step out of our comfort zone. Whether it is public speaking, taking on a leadership role, or pursuing your MBA after being out of the classroom for over 20 years. These are all examples of how I have practiced vulnerability in my life.
As an introvert, there are few things that make me more nervous than public speaking. However, I stepped outside of my comfort zone for something I was passionate about and ended up being the lead spokesperson and fundraiser for a local nonprofit organization. Through this vulnerability, I made many valuable connections, I gained courage I never knew I had, I found support everywhere I turned and most of all, I grew in ways that I will be forever grateful. I am hopeful that getting my MBA will lead to a similar experience. Although I am extremely nervous about stepping back into the classroom, I know the potential for growth is enormous. Not only for me, but for my children. I want them to see that you are never too old to learn and that you should continually push yourself beyond your comfort zone. You will never know how far you can go if you don’t take that first