ILM Level 3 Understanding Leadership

ILM Level 3 Understanding Leadership

Learning Outcomes

AC 1.1 Describe the factors that will influence the choice of leadership styles or behaviours in workplace situations

 

AC 1.2 Explain why these leadership styles or behaviours are likely to have a positive or negative effect on individual and group behaviour

Think of a boss that you admired. Why did you admire them?

What skills and qualities did they have?

Are people 'born leaders' or do they practice and develop their skills?

Born leaders

Develop skills

The Great Man Theory

In the early 20th century, with leadership literature just emerging, it was believed that leaders were born not made. Many leaders in various fields came from cultured, educated, and rich families, hence that assumption. It was called the Great Man theory. Of course, they were almost all men. 

Trait Theory

Trait leadership theory suggests that certain individuals have inherent qualities that make them effective leaders. These traits may vary, but some are most commonly observed in successful leaders.

Determination: Every successful leader needs a strong will to overcome challenges and achieve goals. Stubborn? Maybe. But in a good way!

Self-confidence: Leaders need to make decisions and stand by them. Self-confidence is the key to making hard choices without wavering.

Integrity: Honesty and consistency are paramount in leadership. Remember, a leader’s integrity often reflects on their entire team.

Intelligence: This isn’t all about IQ! Leaders need emotional intelligence too – understanding their team’s thoughts and feelings can make a huge impact.

Sociability: Leaders should effectively socialize and communicate. A friendly chat can go a long way.

Behavioural Theory

This theory proposes that leadership is not a fixed trait but a set of learned behaviors. It suggests that anyone can become an effective leader with the right guidance and willingness to adapt. Behavioral Theory views leadership as a skill that can be developed and refined over time.

Unlike other theories that rely heavily on abstract concepts, the Behavioral Theory of Leadership is concrete and practical. It encourages leaders to analyze their actions and adjust their behavior to suit different circumstances and the needs of their team.

One of the key ideas behind this theory is that leadership effectiveness is not determined solely by who you are but by what you do. It’s about the actions you take, the decisions you make, and the way you interact with your team. In this sense, a theory democratizes leadership, suggesting that anyone can improve their leadership abilities through deliberate practice and self-awareness.

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What is the difference between a leader and a manager?

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Leadership Theory

Definition: A leadership theory is a conceptual framework explaining how and why certain individuals become leaders and influence others. It provides a foundation for understanding leadership behaviours and dynamics.

Purpose: To describe and predict leadership effectiveness based on specific factors (traits, behaviours, situations, etc.).

Examples:

Trait Theory: Leaders are born with specific traits that make them effective.

Behavioural Theory: Leadership is about actions and behaviours rather than inherent traits.

Situational Leadership Theory: Effective leadership depends on the context and the leader's ability to adapt.

Leadership Models

Definition: A leadership model is a practical application or framework derived from leadership theories. It outlines specific components or processes that can be followed or implemented to guide leadership practices.

Purpose: To provide a structured approach for applying leadership principles in real-world settings.

Examples:

The Transformational Leadership Model: Focuses on inspiring and motivating followers to achieve beyond expectations.

The Blake-Mouton Managerial Grid: A model that plots leadership styles based on concern for people versus concern for production.

Leadership Style

Definition: A leadership style is the specific way a leader behaves, interacts with their team, and makes decisions. It reflects the leader's personal preferences, values, and approach to leadership.

Purpose: To describe how a leader actually leads in practice.

Examples:

Autocratic Style: Leader makes decisions without consulting the team.

Democratic Style: Leader involves the team in decision-making.

Laissez-Faire Style: Leader provides minimal direction and lets the team operate independently.

Group Exercise

Room 1 - Autocratic Leadership

Room 2 - Democratic Leadership

Room 3 - Laissez-faire Leadership

Provide a description of the allocated leadership style.

What are the positive and negative effects on individual behaviour from the allocated leadership style?

What are the positive or negative effects on group behaviour from the allocated leadership style?

Record your findings in a table format and share them with the class.

Appoint a spokesperson to deliver your findings to the main group.

20 minutes

According to situational leadership theory, effective leaders vary their leadership styles. What factors, in your opinion, influence the choice of leadership style?

Factors Affecting Leadership Style

The Leader

The Team

The Environment

The Task