Question

Terms like trait and process (skills) are used in discussing leadership. What is the difference? (Cite your source) Which do you believe is more predominate in leaders?

Answer 1

While traits and skills are often misunderstood to mean the same thing, there's a huge difference between the two. While skills are something that can be learnt, traits refer to instincts that come naturally to a person. Ability to interact with your surroundings, taking initiative and displaying leadership abilities are all features that I've always personally thought of as traits that come naturally to people rather than skills that can be learnt in a classroom.

Leadership inherently is a trait rather than a skill. No amount of theoretical knowledge can teach a person how to step up to a challenge or display a higher level of interpersonal skills and bond a team together. It's something that either comes naturally to you or it doesn't. Perhaps EQ (Emotional Quotient) is a term given to this phenomena.

Hope that helps! :)

answered by: anonymous