It is tempting to reject the usual starting point for discussions of leadership
– namely with its definition – if only because it tends to be a daunting
induction for the uninitiated. Writers typically point (quite properly) to the
wide range of pertinent definitions (e.g. Gibb, 1969; Stogdill, 1974; Yukl,
1981) and proceed to examine a sample of them. The basic problem is that
not only is there a range of definitions, but there is also no consensually
agreed one. The absence of a common definition of leadership means that
the initial treatment of the topic can very easily become bogged down in a
definitional quagmire, providing the reader with an unattractive introduction
to a promising area. It is a promising area because in everyday life
people seem to believe that leadership matters, that it is important to the
realization of a desirable state of affairs. This is what people mean when
they bemoan the absence of 'good' or 'strong' leadership or when
industrialists seek to recruit to their firm people with the 'right' leadership
qualities.
Behavior Flexibility - The ability to change and adapt one's behavior to situational changes by being flexible rather then locked in to one's impulses.
Social Performance - Understanding the employees' perspectives in order to communicate a vision. If there is resistance or conflict, be a mediator and/or coach, rather than a boss who gives orders.
Social Judgment skills can be increased by watching and reflecting on how others do it, increasing your listening skills, and using empathy. Watching how other people do something and then learning from it is called modeling. It is one of the primary ways that people learn social skills. Reflecting on how people react to you and to others will help expand your understanding of the skill and help you to learn it more deeply. When talking with others, be sure to listen to them rather than just hear them. In addition, listen for understanding, rather than be judgmental.
To empathize with them, heed the Sioux Indian Tribal Prayer,
“Great Spirit, help us never to judge another until we have walked for two weeks in his moccasins.”
Empathy differs from sympathy in that sympathy connotes spontaneous emotion rather than a conscious, reasoned response. For more information, see Motivation.