Toward a Two-Track Model of Leadership Training

Abstract

The personality typology of high versus low self-monitoring is presented as a possible moderator of leadership training. The behavior of high self-monitoring individuals is guided by situational factors; these individuals are capable of accurate modifications of their behavior to correspond to social situations, and they are especially skilled in diagnosing social situations. Hence, high self-monitoring leaders should benefit most from leadership training requiring leaders'behavior to change as a function of group contingencies (Track I training). In contrast, the behavior of low self-monitoring individuals is displayed in accordance with internal, dispositional traits and values. These leaders should profit most from training that instructs leaders to alter organizational structures (relationships with boss or with the subordinate group) to produce an effective match between the leader's intrinsic behavioral style and group contingencies (Track I training).