Trait Theory - Are Leaders Born To Lead?

One of the major problems with trait theory is that it suggests that people are born with certain traits or qualities that make them effective leaders. Clearly, as an individual who believes strongly in leadership development, I would reject this outright. Once again, I use the example of a person who is, essentially from birth, highly social and interactive with others. It is a given that more effective leaders are able to exhibit strong social interactive skills and that individuals who possess this tendency “naturally” have more leadership opportunities. But that does not mean that an introverted person cannot practice highly interactive skills. This introverted person may not have the social tendency come as easily and as naturally but it can be present. 

In similar manner, a person who is described as very honest could learn to be deceitful and a person who is described as deceitful could learn to be honest.  Many of our propensities are influenced by multiple factors as we interact with others. 

This I believe – leaders can be developed. Leaders can learn skills that comprise effective leadership and those skills can be enhanced and improved. For some, because of factors that are hereditary in nature, those skills may be more easily learned and practiced. However, the bottom line conclusion is that if trait theory indicates that leaders are born, I must reject it as an absolute principle.