The three highest BSA ranks -- Star, Life, and Eagle -- have leadership requirements that the Scout must complete. The terms "leadership" and "management" are often used interchangeably, but generally we are talking about the thoughts and actions required of the Scout when he is responsible for, or in charge of, some part of the Troop's program or organization.
As a leader, whether he is Patrol Leader, member of the Leadership Corps, Troop Quartermaster, or does any of numerous other jobs in Troop 48, he is responsible for specific activities and things. He may also be responsible for the actions of other Scouts. Some of the characteristics of a leadership role in a Scout Troop when the job is done well are:
1. The Scout who is a good leader plans ahead and has a vision of what needs to be done and how to get there. As a leader, he needs to be out in front in his thinking and actions, or needs to support and reflect the thinking and actions of other Scouts and adult leaders.
2. He takes the lead, works hard himself, and works hard to get things done through others. His attitude toward Troop activities shows enthusiasm. He conveys a sense of optimism and excitement when planning and announcing Troop activities.
3. He communicates well with other people -- other Scouts, adult leaders, parents, and people outside the troop. He initiates these communications when needed and without waiting to be asked. He is willing to share his thoughts with others and ask for their advice.
4. He maintains good relationships with other people. He demonstrates good character. He does these things by living the Scout Oath and the Scout Law. Examples: "… to help other people at all times, …" "A Scout is Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful, Friendly, Courteous, Kind, Obedient, Cheerful …"
5. He proves that he is available to help others by responding in a positive and understanding manner when asked to help someone. He is especially sensitive to the needs of newcomers to the Troop 48 family, and will go out of his way to help younger Scouts get established in his patrol or in the Troop.
6. His participation in the Scouting program is strong and reliable. By taking part in Troop and other Scouting activities willingly and enthusiastically, he is setting an excellent example for others to follow.
7. He is committed and loyal to Scouting -- to his patrol and to his troop. He is willing to give Scouting activities a high priority in his personal and family life, often deciding to take part in a Troop activity rather than some other attractive and compelling alternative.
8. He manages himself and his personal schedules well in order to take part in many activities, such as school, church, sports, family vacations, work and chores at home, and part-time jobs.
9. His positive examples of strong leadership and active participation serve as a role model for other Scouts, and will influence others to follow him. He is successful as a leader because his enthusiasm is catching. People follow him because he enjoys what he is doing, knows where he is headed, and asks others to join him in Troop activities.
10. He knows how to get things done through others by asking them to help. When necessary, he uses "pleasant persuasion" and humor to cause other people to want to help him. He realizes that he will be more effective as a leader and will get more done if he doesn't try to do everything himself. He is willing to accept results that are less than perfect by letting others do things their way.
11. He understands that his image as a leader is important. He wears the BSA uniform -- correctly. His behavior and appearance reflect good character and strong support for the Scouting ideals. His attitude toward other people shows respect for them, their feelings, and their beliefs. He works hard at being sensitive and understanding where other people's needs and values are concerned. He makes a strong effort to control his own feelings, not to become angry, and not to be critical of others in public. He looks for opportunities to give praise to others in public -- to recognize good results.
C.B.Hasbrouck, SM, 02-03-99