ority of up – and – coming leaders, these attributes come only with experience. According to Chemers, there are three fundamental requirements a person must meet in order to become anything that resembles an effective leader, which make up his integrative model. “Effective leadership is thought to encompass three major functions; image management, which refers to a leader’s ability to project an image that is consistent with the observers’ expectations; relationship development, which reflects the leader’s success in creation and sustaining motivated and competent followers; and resource utilization, which alludes to the leader’s capability for deploying the assets of self and others to mission accomplishment” (1997: 27). A cornerstone of Chemers’ definition of what makes an effective leader is what he calls image management. Image management “…refers to a leaders ability to project an image that is consistent with observers’ expectations” (1997: 27). A leader cannot become effective if he or she does not meet the expectations of observers, or portray an image of trustworthiness and competence. Chemers cites the studies of Kouzes & Posner, who did extensive research into what aspects and characteristics followers look for in what they consider effective leaders. The main findings of the survey posed by Kouzes and Posner show that subordinates most desire a leader who is honest and competent above all else. Characteristics are not the only aspect required to be a successful, effective leader, however. “Leaders are able to project a compelling image when their actions match commonly held templates of how effective leaders should appear” (1997: 27). Chemers is referring to both image and behavior in the previous statement. According to Chemers, appearance is a vital aspect of being an effective leader. Physical appearance plays a very ...
