Organziational Behavior and Communications

Leadership Theories

Assume you are the manager of the department where you currently work. If you are not currently working, use a past situation or an imaginary situation; be sure to describe it. Select one situational leadership theory and one emerging leadership theory that you believe will be most useful in managing your staff. Respond to the following:

• Identify the two theories you selected and explain why you think these theories will be most helpful in the given scenario.
• Explain whether you anticipate needing different leadership methods according to the ages, races, national origins, cultures, genders, educational backgrounds, or job types of your subordinates. Evaluate two different situations using examples to illustrate your point and provide appropriate citations.
• Subordinates often have a close working relationship with their bosses that gives them insight into the bosses' leadership skills that others may not have. Suggest a theory for a leader you have known in a workplace or in a community group. (Describe the situation, but do not identify the person.) You may even choose a character or a situation from television. How does your suggested theory differ from the manager's current leadership style? What is it about your recommended theory that makes it preferable over the manager's current style?