Are Leaders Made or Born?
Why real leadership is forged through behaviour, not biology.
The image below is from a recent Warrant Officer course I had the privilege of instructing - in my other life as an Army Reserve Officer. During the session, we explored ethical decision-making in command and combat scenarios, and introduced the TRACOM Group's Social Style and Versatility framework to strengthen leadership effectiveness in real-world conditions.
Reflecting on my own journey, it feels like just yesterday I was a young Private, being shaped by the Warrant Officers around me. I still remember every one of their names - their presence, their standards and their values continue to shape how I lead today.
Warrant Officers are more than technical experts - they are stewards of culture. They model ethical conduct, set expectations and act as trusted role models for junior soldiers. Their leadership has a profound and enduring impact.
So, are leaders made or born?
Research suggests leadership is largely learned. While personality and cognitive ability contribute to leadership potential, studies show these account for only around 30% of leadership effectiveness. The remaining 70% comes down to behaviour - how leaders adapt, make decisions and engage others in complex, dynamic environments. These behaviours are not fixed. They can be taught, developed and refined over time.
That is why courses like this matter. These Warrant Officers are not just absorbing theory - they are shaping the kind of leaders their teams will depend on in the most demanding circumstances.
Interestingly, the ADF has recently placed greater emphasis on enhancing the social intelligence and behavioural mastery of its leaders. In many ways, my military and civilian careers are converging - with both focused on building high-trust, high-performance leadership grounded in clarity, ethics and adaptability.
Ready to grow your leaders?
At Social Intelligence Group, over 3,000 leaders from across industries and geographies have experienced the power of the SOCIAL STYLE® & Versatility framework - strengthening their communication, influence and leadership impact. Whether in corporate, government, defence or not-for-profit sectors, our programmes equip leaders to perform with confidence, clarity and behavioural agility.
Explore our Leadership Programmes or get in touch to discuss how we can support your leadership development goals.
