The Author’s Main Point
The author’s main point is that people in an organizational set-up have different personalities that every leader should accept. As a result of the differences, conflicts are likely to arise in the work place. However, some have special problem-solving skills and must be tasked with providing solutions to the issue (Chestnut, 2017). The writer illustrates that the Enneagram tool encompasses all the qualities that are desired from a leader.
The Author’s Intended Audience
The article is intended for the leaders who are of an open mind. They also must accept that becoming a great leader requires individuals to understand themselves and the surrounding environment. In other words, it is directed to authorities in an organization, who have realized that self-awareness is a way of becoming a great leader who is aware of his role in achieving the objectives of the organization.
The Author’s Arguments and Support to The Main Point
The author’s argument supports the main point since it illustrates how the diverse personalities affect the leader differently. For instance, mindfulness is described in the text as a soft skill that enables leaders to prosper since it helps them avoid meddling in the junior staff’s affairs. It also helps those in charge on a personal adventure that can allow to acquire self-awareness to limit constraints that affect work performance.
Based on the article, there are 9 different personality types in a workplace. They include “the reformer, the helper, the achiever, the individualist, the investigator, the loyalist, the enthusiast, the challenger, and the peacemaker” (Chestnut, 2017). Each category plays a different role in making a great leader. They enable individuals to understand their surrounding environment by giving an insight into why people react in a particular manner while working. Each type should be applied individually only if the need arises. For instance, the peacemaking trait should be used when a conflict has emerged and requires a solution.
Evidence That Supports the Main Point
The author uses the Enneagram tool to support the main point. Enneagram is a tool that monitors the personal growth of leaders since they began their leadership roles. Chestnut (2017) also illustrates the main point by having verbal communication with the chief staff. The stories given by the senior officers demonstrate the professional growth they have encountered in the leadership positions. Moreover, the Enneagram illustrates how to understand team dynamics, improving work relationships and creating professional culture.
My Opinion of The Article
The article is thoughtful and directed to the right audience. Many people have failed in leadership roles because they are not self-aware of their surrounding environment. As a result, they only act on what they deem suitable for them instead of focusing on actions that can benefit society. Although the 9 personality types discussed in the article apply to every leader, they should be exercised differently only when there is a need. Using all of them at the same time may bring confusion, thus creating chaos in the organization.
The Evidence from The Textbook That Supports My Opinion
Chestnut’s article supports the opinion by demonstrating that personality types act differently. Even though they are 9 and should all be exhibited by a leader, they are each type is used only when there is need. For instance, the author gives an example of mindfulness. The trait is exercised solely to enable a leader to eliminate all the surrounding distractors that hinder self-awareness. When leaders become mindful, they only focus on their personal growth, ensuring that they achieve their highest potential.
Reference
Chestnut, B. (2017). 9 types of leadership: Mastering the art of people in the 21st-century workplace. Post Hill Press.