Traditional Theories of Leadership

Introduction
In today’s companies and organizations, it is extremely important to not only comprehend but also appreciate techniques and models of leadership.   In companies and organizations, this highlights the significance of leaders to accomplish its objectives and goals.   It is imperative to recognize that because there are different styles of leadership, one that works for one organization or company may not work for another.
While Whitehead, Weiss & Tappen (2009) state that researchers believe some individuals “are natural leaders, everyone can be a leader, given the necessary knowledge and skills,” it has also been proposed and suggested that individuals’ leadership abilities, given the opportunity and education, could be improved and enhanced (Mahoney, 2001).
The Traditional Theories of Leadership
Three important philosophies in the traditional definition of leadership are goals, influence and interpersonal.   There are several traditional theories of leadership, such as the Trait Theory, the Behavioral Theory and the Situational or Contingency Theory.
Trait Theory
The Trait Theory, which was standard and prevalent in the 1940’s and 1950’s.   The Trait Theory of Leadership proposes that character traits impact leader development and success.   The Trait Theory of Leadership suggests that some traits distinguish leaders from other, regular people (Antonakis, Day & Schyns, 2010).   There were many trait studies performed from 1904 through 1948.   The research data showed that a person, who is a leader, exceeds the other members of the organization in the following ways:
• Aptitude and intellect
• Learning abilities
• Reliability in exercising everyday jobs
• Social and activity participation
• Socio-economic standing
• Inventiveness
• Tenacity
• Perseverance
• Self-confidence
• Intuition and perception in circumstances
• Works well with others
• Admiration
• Flexibility
(Badshah, 2012).
Behavioral Theory
The Behavioral Theory...