Leader – Culture and society – Companies and businesses
We explain what a leader is, the types of leaders according to Max Weber, and the general characteristics of a true leader.
What is a leader?
The world leader comes from the English leader. Leaders are defined as people capable of guiding and influencing other people or groups of people, and they also recognize them as such.
Some classify leaders according to the specific characteristics they possess. First, it is essential to distinguish natural leaders from institutionalized ones. The first are those that arise naturally from groups of people; the rest decide to recognize their role as leaders and respect them. On the other hand, the standardized have their position legitimately. This can cover different political or spiritual places and educators, among others.
Another way to classify leaders is positive and negative. An example of the latter is authoritarian leaders. They are characterized by being dominant and abusing their power. They also impose what the issues to be addressed are. Nor do they allow the free expression of the rest of their colleagues. The opposite of this type of leaderonehose that will enable the rest of the group to give their opinion and allow better relations between the different members.
Types of leaders, according to Max Weber.
Sociologist Max Weber defined three ideal types of leaders:
- In the first place is what he calls legal. These leaders access their leadership roles through elections; other people choose them. These are usually identified with political leaders.
- The second type is the leader he calls traditional. This obtains its role thanks to inheritance or custom; an example of this type of leader is, for example, the kings.
- The last type of leader is what he calls charismatic. These people are characterized by having the virtue of charisma, expressed in various ways and at different times. An example of these could be Argentina’s caudillos of the 19th century.
What is a true leader like?
Typically, true and good leaders are usually associated with role models. A true leader must be characterized by being an honest person with the ability to work with different people, with the ability to express their opinions and ideas, and try to encourage others to express their positions. They are usually people who think strategically and in the future. Another quality that allows you to stand out as a leader is charisma; this virtue will enable you to attract other people and call them to the desired action.
When leading teams, they try to link the tasks of others, making them fulfill their responsibilities. They try to motivate their colleagues, mobilize them, and interest them in what concerns them. A true leader is a good driver by example. This feature allows you to gain the respect of others.
In addition, leaders are characterized by emerging at necessary times. On the other hand, they constantly try to improve themselves, which allows them to grow in various aspects, especially from a personal point of view. Another quality is their capacity for action; they are not only dedicated to guiding and articulating the work and activities of others, but they also act on their own, knowing their abilities and weaknesses but always taking risks to obtain better results.
