Personality Traits and Characteristics
Each year, many business colleges and news organizations honor someone that they have selected as the business leader of the year. If asked, most people could easily identify someone that they believe to be a great leader. Consider whom you would select. Whether in the workplace, community, or government, this individual would embody the traits that you consider important in a leader. Reflect on the personality characteristics of this leader. Also, consider how this individual influenced the culture of the organization or environment in which he or she participated.

QUESTIONS:

1. What traits and personality characteristics are important for leadership? If someone does not possess these traits, can they still be an effective leader? Can these traits be learned?

2. Can a positive trait also become or be perceived as a weakness? Explain.

3. How do these traits vary between cultures? How can leaders who lead in an international context deal with multicultural perceptions? Give specific examples.