Managing All-in-One For Dummies

Chapter 4

Building Your Leadership Skill Set

In This Chapter

Knowing where you are when you start

Developing the traits that good leaders share

Understanding the roles leaders play

You may wonder why some people seem to become leaders naturally and effortlessly, whereas others don't. You've probably heard reverent whispers that so-and-so is a natural leader, but leadership is situational, not hereditary.

Although some people come naturally by personality traits common to leaders, personality traits can be developed, too — and so can the skills that turn so-so leaders into great ones. Think of it this way: Some people have to work hard to develop a good golf swing, while others seem to naturally have a knack for it. Similarly, with perseverance and work, anyone can develop his own leadership skills. (And people who work diligently to develop an ability often end up better than those who just get by on their natural abilities.)

Read on to find out about the ways that effective leaders dig in and make things happen.

Taking Stock As You Get Started

Retreat into your office and close the door while you read this section, or pick a quiet place in your house, because understanding why ...