Leadership is the act of influencing individuals and groups towards a set goal. Leader can be both appointed by a group or emerge from the group naturally. In sport, the typical leader is the coach. Effective coaches demonstrate effective behaviours such as focusing on the positive and providing clear feedback and technical training. Leaders can be task oriented and relationship oriented – relationship oriented leaders focus on developing and maintaining good relationships, and a task oriented leader focuses on setting goals and getting the job done. It is important that the leader match the correct style that they are using with the correct situations in order for them to be successful. The consequences of good leadership are satisfaction, cohesion and performance. Some specific qualities of good leaders include: * Integrity * Flexibility * Loyalty * Confidence * Accountability * Candour * Preparedness * Resourcefulness * Self discipline * Patience Related Links Sports Psychology |