A leader is an individual that directs and leads other individuals within a team, unit, group, or other type of organization. The leader is responsible to all other members within a group, and oversees that work is done correctly. A leader can be someone as important as the CEO of a major corporation, or even a child that is leading a game of “Simon Says”. It is not what an individual is leading that is important, but the qualities and personality of the leader themselves. Leaders are often said to have the drive to get things done because they have goals or visions that they want to achieve. It is up to the leader to see that these goals are accomplished.
Leaders possess numerous traits that can help them be successful. Although each individual is different, there is a basic and fundamental set of traits that most leaders possess. Integrity is one of the most recognized leadership traits because it is important to be honest, fair, and compassionate to those you are leading. A second trait that is found among leaders is having good people skills and abilities to get others to work together effectively. Leaders are usually well-liked by those around them, making it much easier for the group to accomplish their goals. A last trait that is found to be important among leaders is being optimistic. It is important for leaders to remain positive in situations in order to lift the spirits of others. Individuals do not work well with leaders that are constantly finding the negative in everything.
Leaders can resolve team conflict in numerous ways. One of the most effective ways is to serve as the mediator of the group to try and find the source of the conflict. This can be done by using effective communication, which is imperative for those in leadership positions. Leaders often call all team members together to discuss their concerns, or address their questions, and this gives everyone the chance to voice their opinions. Individuals in leadership positions should be slow to anger or get upset, as doing so could make the team conflict worse. Techniques of effective communication almost always work to solve team conflict, which usually stems from lack of communication or miscommunication from certain members of the group. When given the opportunity, most group conflicts can be resolved when those in disagreement with one another sit down and discuss the problems calmly and rationally.
I do not consider myself to be a leader. Primarily, I do not have much experience leading others, and this could be part of the reason that I am shy when it comes to group projects. I believe that the more positive experiences I have with individuals that are good leaders, the more I can build the skills and confidence that I need. There are certain leadership qualities and traits that I do possess, but I need more practice leading others before I could consider myself a true leader.
I am not the leader for our group project. I chose not to serve in that capacity because our team, as a whole, felt as though someone would be a better fit. I am somewhat shy when it comes to groups, and I enjoy working alongside others compared to directing or guiding them. Although I do see leadership qualities in myself, I am not yet comfortable taking on that role.
I have been very pleased with the actions of our team leader. They stepped up and helped guide everyone in the right direction while listening to our concerns. I have felt very much a part of this team because my input is always taken into consideration and appreciated. I have been in groups before where the leader will use their role as a reason to do all of the work, and I was not able to learn anything from those individuals. I do not have any suggestions for my team’s leader because this has been such a great experience.
As of right now, I do not have any thoughts or concerns about the team that I would like to share. This group project has helped me become more comfortable in groups because everyone has been so supportive.
