Which is listed as a leader characteristic by Bennis?

Which is listed as a leader characteristic by Bennis?

• A. Authoritarian control
• B. Meaning or direction
• C. Rigidity
• D. Indifference

Answer: (B)

Providing meaning and direction to others is central to what Warren Bennis identifies as a leader. He argues that great leaders give people a sense of purpose and a clear path forward, helping everyone understand why their work matters and where they’re headed. That sense of meaning or direction motivates and aligns the team’s efforts, especially in times of change. The other options describe negative traits that don’t fit his positive leadership profile. Authoritarian control relies on coercion rather than inspiring guidance. Rigidity blocks adaptation and growth, and indifference signals a lack of engagement with people and purpose. In Bennis’s view, effective leaders actively create meaning and steer toward a shared direction.

Providing meaning and direction to others is central to what Warren Bennis identifies as a leader. He argues that great leaders give people a sense of purpose and a clear path forward, helping everyone understand why their work matters and where they’re headed. That sense of meaning or direction motivates and aligns the team’s efforts, especially in times of change.

The other options describe negative traits that don’t fit his positive leadership profile. Authoritarian control relies on coercion rather than inspiring guidance. Rigidity blocks adaptation and growth, and indifference signals a lack of engagement with people and purpose. In Bennis’s view, effective leaders actively create meaning and steer toward a shared direction.