Situational Leadership Analysis

Leadership is where art and science come together to provide an individual with the knowledge, skills and abilities that guide others to a common outcome or objective. The essence of leadership is the ability of a person to direct a person or persons.1 Guiding and directing others to bring your vision into reality is a trait of leadership. Throughout this course, the ever-present theme of leadership is appropriate and gives rise to the following attributes: vision, courage, integrity, humility, strategic planning, focus and cooperation. When I contemplate on a historic leader that I admire and whom also exhibited leadership skills that are quintessential, it is General Colin Powell, first African American, twelfth and youngest Chairman, Joint

This theory refers to the leader adjusting the style so it is appropriate for the development of the subordinates.7 The leader will change his approach to accommodate those under command. Gen. Powell’s leadership style aligns with the Hersey-Blanchard Situational Leadership Model. He ensured that his style suited the standards of his subordinates. Gen. Powell exemplified, “Let the situation direct the strategy of leadership.”8 He successfully demonstrated this concept in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Under his leadership, the Iraqi army was expelled from Kuwait. He was the principal designer of the reorientation of U.S. strategy. His ability to effectively lead the operations and communicate his vision to President Bush and the American people was most effective as a situational leader. Gen. Powell insisted on keeping all diplomatic options open while building forces to ensure a quick victory to include direct support from coalition partners. Achieving this overwhelming victory in the Persian Gulf, it boosted the military’s standing with the American people. Gen. Powell’s courageous effort was recognized. He was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.9 Gen. Powell successfully demonstrated the Situational Leadership

Powell became an effective leader by first listening to an NCO at Infantry School as a second lieutenant. Listening to wise counsel is essential for all leaders. The leader is only as effective as the input and feedback that is received and willingness to accept. He learned at the beginning of his storied military career the value of another’s thought or idea. Not only did he listen, he was resolute in projecting the image he required of his subordinates. His level-headed character enabled him to solidify all parties concerned. Listening and level-headedness propelled Gen. Powell to becoming an effective leader. He is credited for inspiring all military members with his commitment and dedication to service and the American people. His pursuit of consistent excellence permeated throughout the military. Gen. Powell epitomized all leadership competencies. An area where I believe Gen. Powell could have improved is under the competency of Personal – developing self. With his focus primarily on the people and organization, he could have spent more time to assess himself to discover his own developmental needs. However, I must admit, even though self-development was an area identified to improve, he ultimately self-actualized by focusing on the mission and the