There are born leaders and those who have the characteristics to become one but need experiences to refine their leadership skills. I have the characteristics to become a good leader, but I have just started my career. I'm starting to learn the ins and outs of leadership. This includes my weaknesses and strengths, social style, negotiation style and political style. Different management styles were discussed during this week's readings. This journal will analyze my leadership style, specifically the three leadership styles and how they work in my current environment. Social, Negotiating, and Political Styles Social Style Relationship building and assertive communication are critical roles in becoming a politically savvy leader. Relationship building includes creating bonds using a multitude of techniques. Gilley (2006) defined six elements: acceptance, involvement, attention, empathy, genuineness and understanding. As far as I'm concerned, relationship building happens with ease. I was born as a passionate and very caring person. This includes understanding and wanting to be involved with those around me. I know this caring compassion can hinder some situations, however, I also find that my caring and compassionate ways help me in my current position. I have used all six elements of Gilley (2006) for building relationships during my current and past positions. I've found that in most of my work I trust those around me, to a fault. I believe everyone can be genuinely sincere, until they prove otherwise. It is these people who have shown me that sometimes I need to be more cautious. Even with the drawbacks to my relationship building skills, I have found that more often than not I am able to listen and... mid-paper... determine what style would be best. However, the relationships and understanding of the facts should theoretically allow me to create an environment conducive to carrying out the work. Conclusion I know I have weaknesses. This may be due to my passion for people and desire to be liked. I know not everyone will like me and there will be conflict. I will have to learn to deal with these situations and this can only happen with experience as a leader. I have a good foundation with my leadership style, I just need to understand what it really means to be a leader. I know I can be successful because I am adaptable and understand people and situations. Understanding these two elements should allow me to become a good leader, and perhaps one day I can become a great leader. Works Cited Gilley, J. (2006). The manager as politician. Westport, CT: Praeger Publishers.