Competency Paper

Michael Manson’s Competency Paper:

Michael T. Manson

Lake Forest Graduate School of Management

LKF - MON

One could argue that being a leader is not only being a manager of people, but being someone who inspires others to believe in their vision. Others could persuade that a good leader relies heavily on the strategy of numbers and success then follows. I have read many leadership books, articles, and quotes. Most of them explain the role of a strong leader to be inspirational and persuasive, but what about the strategic plan, overcoming diversity, and taking risks? What if they are wrong and everything fails? Would a strong leader continue to inspire others, or take on the situation alone and hope for the best? This is why I have decided to pursue my MBA at LFGSM. The school uses the phrase, “Broad Thinkers / Strong Leaders.” I am here to become both broad and strong in my leadership, which will allow me to separate myself from my peers, and move up within the organization. Reality shows, that no leader is absolutely perfect and everyone has a few competencies that need improvement. I have a strong skill set in relating with people but lack in the area of how my decision making affects the rest of the organization.

My top three strengths are interacting with others, knowing how to lead a team, and developing individuals to gain confidence. I believe that human capital is the most valuable asset to any company. Every successful company has tactfully placed their staff into positons where they will be the most efficient and effective. However, one person, the manager, can take a group of talented people, and make them inefficient and ineffective. Since my first day working as a teller for Fifth Third Bank, I have had great managers. Each one took the time to find out what motivates me and how that motivation can be used to perform well. Now that I am in management, I use the same approach to all of my employees. In retail banking, there can be a...