My Top 5 Leadership Traits
- Context
- Intellection
- Command
- Empathy
- Harmony
So, What Does This Mean?
Context:
“Perspective and background are important for people with strong Context talents. They value the retrospective viewpoint because they believe that is where the answers lie. They look back to understand the present. From the past, they can discern blueprints for the future. People with dominant Context talents might feel disoriented when they can’t see patterns stemming from prior events. Others may become impatient with them as they strive to understand the history of a given situation. But this historical context gives them confidence in their decisions.”
Intellection:
“People with strong Intellection talents like to think. They like mental activity. They like to exercise the “muscles” of their brain, stretching them in multiple directions. This need for mental activity may be focused; for example, they may be trying to solve a problem, develop an idea or understand another person’s feelings. The exact focus will depend on their other strengths. The theme of Intellection does not dictate what these people are thinking about; it simply describes that they like to think. They like to let their thoughts go in many directions. People with strong Intellection talents are introspective. This introspection gives them time to reflect and ponder. Wherever it leads them, their mental hum is a constant in their lives.”
Command:
“People with strong Command talents naturally take charge. They see what needs to be done and are willing to speak up. Confrontation does not frighten them; rather, they understand that it is the first step toward resolution. They need things to be clear among people, and they will challenge others to be realistic and honest. Their talent pushes them to take risks. At times, those with strong Command talents may intimidate others. And while some may resent this talent, others often willingly hand them the reins. People are drawn toward those who take a stand and are willing to lead.”
Empathy:
“People with strong Empathy talents can sense the emotions of those around them. They can feel what others are feeling as though the emotions were their own. They intuitively see the world through others’ eyes and share their perspectives. They perceive people’s pain or joy, sometimes before it is even expressed. Their instinctive ability to understand is powerful. They can hear unvoiced questions and anticipate needs. Where others grapple for words, they seem to find the right things to say and strike the right tone. As a result, they help people express their feelings — to themselves as well as to others. They help people give voice to their emotional lives.”
Harmony:
“People with strong Harmony talents want peace and try to bring others together. In their view, little is gained from conflict and friction, so they seek to hold these to a minimum. Those with strong Harmony talents see what people have in common, even during conflict. They try to steer others away from confrontation and toward reconciliation. In fact, Harmony is one of their guiding values. They seek to help individuals, families and organizations work together. When others argue, they steer clear of the debate, preferring to talk about practical, down-to-earth matters that everyone can agree on.”
Definitions come from Gallup Leadership Analysis at www.gallup.com