Psychology and Leadership, Part 3: Activity and Methods
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Co-creator of Perceptual Style Theory
What makes someone an effective leader? While certain leadership qualities are valuable across different situations, the ways individuals exercise leadership can vary considerably depending on how they naturally perceive and respond to the world.
In the first two articles of this five-part series exploring Perceptual Style Theory™ and leadership, we examined five qualities that contribute to effective leadership, regardless of Perceptual Style. In the remaining three articles, we explore the distinctive leadership approaches associated with each of the six Perceptual Styles, beginning with Activity and Methods.
Activity Leadership: Influencing Through Relationships and Action
People with the Activity Perceptual Style often prefer to allow others the freedom to pursue their own directions rather than maintaining a continuous, highly directive leadership role. However, when circumstances require immediate attention or a situation presents an opportunity to make a meaningful difference, they may readily step forward and take the initiative.
In these situations, individuals with the Activity Perceptual Style may lead through influence rather than overt authority. Their awareness of interpersonal relationships and the subtleties of group dynamics can help them earn the respect and cooperation of others.
People with the Activity Perceptual Style often draw upon established relationships and a wide range of personal resources to influence decisions and encourage action. Because they may exercise this influence selectively, their involvement can carry considerable weight when circumstances call for it. They may also demonstrate leadership by building alliances with individuals who share their objectives and are willing to work together toward a common goal.
Important note: A person's Perceptual Style cannot be reliably determined through observation alone. The public figures mentioned in this article are included as illustrations of leadership behaviors that may resemble characteristics associated with particular Perceptual Styles. These examples do not establish or confirm anyone's actual Perceptual Style, which would require completion of the Perceptual Style Assessment™.
Examples of public behaviors that may illustrate aspects of Activity-style leadership can be found in the entertainment industry, including celebrities who have used their visibility to support social causes, such as Robin Williams and Ellen DeGeneres, as well as individuals associated with behind-the-scenes influence, such as Ben Stiller and Danny DeVito.
Methods Leadership: Guiding Through Logic and Steady Progress
People with the Methods Perceptual Style often approach leadership logically and systematically. They value careful analysis, reliable information, and thoughtful planning when determining a course of action. Rather than taking unnecessary risks, they generally prefer steady, incremental progress, building on established gains and ensuring that each step provides a sound foundation for the next.
Those with the Methods style tend to be calm in the face of crisis and steer a steady course through chaotic times, but they intervene reluctantly and change direction only after a complete empirical examination of a situation. When things are moving forward smoothly, they are content to let things be, refusing to unsettle a plan that is working just for the sake of change. Methods leaders attract followers with the common sense aspect of their clear, rational approach.
Public leadership behaviors that may illustrate aspects of the Methods approach can be found in professional sports, including coaches such as Tom Landry (Dallas Cowboys), Phil Jackson (Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers), and Joe Torre (New York Yankees and Los Angeles Dodgers). Historical political figures such as Gerald Ford and Dwight Eisenhower may also provide examples of leadership behaviors associated with a steady, systematic approach.
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About Lynda-Ross
Lynda-Ross Vega is a partner at Vega Behavioral Consulting, Ltd. She specializes in helping corporate leaders, entrepreneurs, and individuals with interpersonal communications, team dynamics, personal development, and navigating change. Lynda-Ross is co-creator of Perceptual Style Theory, a revolutionary behavioral psychology theory and assessment system that teaches people how to unleash their natural strengths and build the life and career they dream of.
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