“Emerging Leadership: Lessons Learned “,  Part 1

Mary Nikola Ed.D., August 2021

Part I – Leadership Traits

As a recent college graduate, Drew had updated his resume and applied for several positions. After several leadership courses, discussions with his advisors and career services, Drew appreciated the importance of being prepared for the upcoming interviews.  As he reviewed his resume Drew reflected on his prior experiences to crystallize some of his accomplishments and his leadership experiences. His research showed that interviewers would most likely ask him directly to describe his leadership experience. Drewàvolunteer work at a hospital, his summer camp jobs and the dining services job at the University stood out as key experiences where he developed his skill set

In high school Drew had volunteered at the local hospital where, assigned to the emergency room, he cleaned and sterilized beds, equipment and trays, and delivered and retrieved supplies for the staff. Basically, he did what was ever asked of him, although it was not very glamorous work.  While volunteering, Drew met a lot of people from different parts of the hospital and made it a point to learn their names.  When one of the food services workers he had befriended told him about an open position in Dining, Drew applied and told his supervising nurse who then offered to serve as a reference.

Drew found washing pots and pans was not the most exciting job, in fact it was the same thing day after day.  When a coworker suddenly quit, Drew volunteered to assist the Cook until a replacement was found. Showing initiative along with his good work ethic (showing up early for work, following through on assignments, asking clarifying questions) impressed the Hospital staff and Drew was offered the position of Assistant Cook.

Leadership Trait Theory ( 50 points) 

1. Give a detailed explanation of trait theory referencing Northouse.
2. Identify and define 2 different traits as discussed in Northouse Chapter 2 which  Drew demonstrated. Be sure to define each term you include.
3. Provide an example for each of these two traits which you observed in Drew.