Questions
1. How would you characterize Rankin’s leadership style?
What approach do you think is correct for this situation? Why?
- Rankin is using a task-oriented behavior leadership style. Authority
compliant managers have a strong focus on good planning and
successful completion of tasks. They place little emphasis on
relationships, motivation or communication with their subordinates.
He cares a lot about the company result, but when it comes to a
personal relationship he is not doing well. Rankin wants the teams
to finish their work in a short period of time and do not care too
much that they work many hours a day, they barely have time for
family. He just wants the project to be done.
- In this particular situation, Rankin should rebuild teamwork and get
them motivated as well as take an interactive leadership approach.
Rankin may be self-disciplined, but he could be more positive
about the way he leads. If co-workers see his positive attitude,
they may catch on.
2.
a) What would you do now if you were Rankin?
The comforting phone calls convince Sally to stay and show her this is a
potential project for the company.
- Potential project: The company has won a lot of revenue
from this project.
- Explain to her how important she is to the team in this
project.
- The benefits when she participates in completing this project:
improved skills, more experience, position in the company
and recognition of her ability.
- Promise of a reward that she will receive after the problem of
the project is solved. (Example: Money, travel, ....)
b) How might you awaken more enthusiasm in your team for
completing this project on time?
