Leadership Trait theory suggests that there are a number of qualities that leaders instrinsically possess which are not possessed by people who are not leaders. However, I would argue that although it is true that many are born to be leaders, there are a number of social, economic, cultural and situational variables that would cause someone to lead rather than follow.
A classic example is that of Sir Winston Churchill who was an excellent war time leader, but was unable to lead during peace.
Leaders therefore require a process by which they are able to recognise and improve their innate capabilities and perform effectively in their leadership role. This doesn’t mean that managers and leaders don’t need to learn skills associated with the role – Communication, Time Management, Delegation, Personal Impact, Motivation, Performance Management are all skills that a leader needs to learn.
However Leadership Development is focused on developing the leader within, the person who is a leader, to grow their innate leadership talent.