Post an analysis of your evolving perspective on leadership. Specifically, explain how your personal definition of leadership has changed or expanded since you began this course. Then, describe the characteristics you would look for in a future supervisor’s leadership (based on your own followership style). Finally, describe one thing you have learned about yourself as a leader.

Clark, E. J., & Corbett, B. S. (2018). What is a leader? Are you one? Can you become one?Links to an external site. The New Social Worker, 25(1), 16–17.

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

Step-by-Step Guide to Structuring and Writing Your Leadership Analysis

Step 1: Understand the Assignment Purpose

This assignment requires you to reflect on how your definition of leadership has changed throughout the course, evaluate what traits you now seek in a future supervisor based on your own followership style, and identify a key insight you’ve gained about yourself as a leader.

Step 2: Draft Your Introduction (Approx. 1 Paragraph)

Briefly state your previous understanding of leadership and how this course prompted you to think differently.
Mention the importance of leadership in both professional and personal contexts.
Include a thesis statement summarizing the three main parts you’ll address in your paper.

Example:
“My understanding of leadership has evolved from a narrow focus on authority to a broader appreciation of influence, empathy, and adaptability. Through course readings and reflection, I have redefined what it means to lead, both in others and in myself.”

Step 3: Evolving Definition of Leadership (Approx. 1–2 Paragraphs)

Explain your initial definition or perception of leadership.
Describe how course materials (e.g., Clark & Corbett, 2018) influenced a more complex or inclusive understanding.
Highlight key concepts like servant leadership, transformational leadership, or emotional intelligence if relevant.

Example Points to Include:

Shift from task-orientation to people-orientation.
Awareness of ethical, emotional, and communicative responsibilities of leaders.

Step 4: Future Supervisor Traits Based on Your Followership Style (Approx. 1 Paragraph)

Identify your followership style (e.g., independent thinker, passive follower, partner).
List and explain leadership traits that complement your style (e.g., transparent communication, inclusiveness, support for autonomy).
Use personal insight or examples to explain why these traits matter to you.

Example:
“As a proactive and independent follower, I thrive under leaders who encourage feedback and trust team members to contribute creatively. I seek supervisors who practice authentic leadership and value collaboration over control.”

Step 5: One Thing You’ve Learned About Yourself as a Leader (Approx. 1 Paragraph)

Reflect on an insight you gained through self-assessment, feedback, or course content.
Discuss how this insight will affect your future behavior in leadership roles.
Connect this to your professional or academic aspirations.

Example:
“One powerful realization I’ve had is that my strength lies in empathetic listening. By understanding the needs of others first, I can build stronger team dynamics and inspire trust.”

Step 6: Conclusion (1 Paragraph)

Summarize your key points: how your view of leadership has grown, what you value in a leader, and how you view yourself as a leader now.
End with a forward-looking statement that emphasizes continuous growth in leadership development.

Step 7: Cite Your Source

Include an APA-style reference to support your paper:

Reference Example (APA Format):
Clark, E. J., & Corbett, B. S. (2018). What is a leader? Are you one? Can you become one? The New Social Worker, 25(1), 16–17.

Final Tips:

Keep your word count between 300–500 words.
Maintain a reflective, academic tone.
Proofread for clarity, grammar, and formatting.
Use first-person voice appropriately in reflective writing.

Would you like help reviewing a draft or checking your final APA reference list?

Analyzing the Evolution of Leadership Perspective and Personal Growth