LEADERSHIP TRAIT – BODY LANGUAGE (MANNERS AND BEARING) MANNERS and BEARING (M&B) is concerned with attitude, behaviour, carriage, posture, etc. It is the ability of ‘Creating a favorable impression in appearance, language, dress, turnout and personal conduct at all times. It’s ‘Significance ~ the ability to look, act, and speak like a leader whether or not these manifestations indicate ones true feelings. MANNERS is also concerned with decorum, etiquettes, formalities, good form, polished, politeness, refinement, social graces, etc. Example are : 1. Wearing clean, pressed dress, and shining boots. 2. Avoiding being profane or using vulgar / indecent language in / at all forums. 3. Keeping a trim, fit appearance. 4. Keeping control over head, word and temper. 5. Clear and plain speech, 6. An erect gait / posture – standing balanced on two feet, and 7. Impeccable personal appearance. Both M&B deserve full attention, superb example from the leaders and should surpass that of the led. Both these traits are accurate indications of the state of mind or emotional stability of any person, particularly that of the leader, and to some extent determine the degree of cooperation that will aroused in the led (followers, staff, team). Facial Expressions etc. ~ The Leader needs mastery over facial expressions, control over the tone of his voice, and gestures so as to be able to exercise a firmer and steadier influence especially in crises (challenges). In addition, his appearance and manners must reflect a genuine decision and competence, and must often give out a ‘degree of confidence’ beyond that which he actually feels. Patronizing Attitude, Eye Contact, etc. ~ The Leader must not adopt a ‘patronizing attitude’ as it arouses resentment. He should maintain ‘eye contact’ with his people, alertness and exactness while meeting or addressing his staff / team. Severity, Austerity, Strictness and Anger ~ Too much of ibid attitudes in manners balk (dodge, recoil, refuse) the sympathy and confidence a leader must have from his team. Anger must be controlled. Language ~ use of tongue, movement of lips and words spoken have great influence on the audience. Leader should use ‘common words’ – words which are short, clear in meanings and understandable. Speak plainly and simply and if he must use terms – maxims or cliques etc. that may be clearly understood, explained with their meanings. Sentences should be short, simple and incisive, positive and direct as they produce confidence, self – reliance and determination. Verbal Correction ~ It is the responsibility of the leader to make ‘verbal correction’ when necessary; these should be direct, dignified, and in moderate language. Immoderate Language ~ such language invariably produces unfavourable results in the team. To use profane or obscene language or to permit its use by colleagues or teammates, especially while giving directives or orders, is to risk friction, resentment, quarrelling, and even disorderly behaviour. Violent language, Tongue Lashing and Use of Slangs should be avoided. Similarly Sarcasm, Irony, Bantering Tone and Wisecracking should not become habitual in course of social talks or in meetings. A Leader should be ‘dignified’. Dignity implies a state of being worthy or honorable. It requires the control of one’s actions and emotions. A leader who makes a spectacle of himself through ‘loudness or lack of emotional control’ quickly loses the respect of his team / staff. To develop the Manner, Bearing and Language a Leader must: 1. Practice exercising control over voice, facial expressions and gestures 2. Cultivate an attitude of calmness, sincerity and understanding 3. Master emotions so as to control them and they do not control his personality 4. Practice simplicity and directness of speech. Be candid. 5. Avoid course behaviour, profanity and vulgarity 6. Never make wholesome condemnation, and never reprimand staff / subordinates in the presence of their colleagues 7. Observe and study leaders who enjoy the reputation of having a good bearings 8. Know are adhere to dress code as per the occasion and rules of conduct e.g. be punctual, etc. Set a highest standard in self to be an example for the team / subordinates 9. Avoid familiarity without being aloof and inaccessible. Do not be reserved but approachable and correctly balanced.
Posted on: Mon, 08 Dec 2014 13:45:42 +0000
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