In Closing...

BLOG # 8

In this journey of leadership development and growth through knowledge, I have discussed several leadership theories. The leadership theories in discussion include..

- The Great Man Theory & Trait Based Theory

- Behavioral Leadership Theory

- Contingency Leadership Theory

- Situational Leadership Theory

- Transformational & Transactional Leadership Theory

- and Contemporary Leadership Theory

In closing, it has been observed that there is no "wrong" or "right" theory. Each theory possesses it's pro's and con's, as each theory's intent is to provide an alternative perception based on a selection of focused variables as a means of enhancing one's comprehension of definitive leadership. In fact, in further analysis, it is plausible to advance one's understanding of leadership by recognizing that each leadership theory is intertwined with one another such that one variable has influence on another's. For example, in situational leadership theory, it is imperative that the leader change his/her's behavior to the appropriate situation based on an employee's maturity in psychological and technical development. In this specific example, situational leadership implements some influences from Behavioral Leadership Theory. This is just one, of several observations, that can be produced when dissecting the correlation of all Leadership Theories.

In learning these leadership theories, I have learned more about myself and how I would like to hold myself as a leader, as well as how I would like to have my leaders hold themselves to. For example, in the context of the hospitality industry, when analyzing Behavior Leadership theory, I find that I do not want to be an authoritative leader, nor do I wish to serve an authoritative leadership. While this leadership may be effective in work places that require low supportive, but high directive, tactics, I find that in the realm of hospitality, I may not make use of this leadership. My understanding of my career and the workplace is a critical determinant to what kind of leadership I will need to employ.

Additionally, understanding the various theories of leadership will better prepare me for a leadership position in my career, since I am now equipped with a general understanding of which qualities, behaviors, attitudes, and likewise are appropriate for which situations and environments in the hospitality industry.