http://www.nytimes.com/2007/05/22/science/earth/22ander.html?_r=1&pagewanted=all
I will again be using an example from one of my other classes as I find them highly interesting. Ray Anderson founded Interface, a module carpet company (using smaller squares of carpet instead of large rolls), in 1973 and has since turned it into a $1,000,000,000+ company. However at a certain point in his career, 1995 to be more specific, his company started to run into questions from consumers about what his company was doing for the environment. He didn't have answers at that point and it caused a big problem. Eventually he wound up reading a book title the Ecology of Commerce and after doing so, felt called to make a change.
Interface now has a company goal to reach a level of zero waste by 2020 but they are well ahead of the pace in reaching that goal. Anderson had a tough decision to make, and he chose the hard road but the one that was more worthwhile. Anderson now spends much of his time helping other companies change their practices and become sustainable. He exercises both an expert power, gained through his experience, and demonstrates the use of path goal theory with his followers (other companies wishing to go green). They have a set goal (being sustainable) and he is able to help them through consulting (providing support, removing obstacles and clarifying the path) to reach that goal. He has decided to help others through a position he was once in himself and it's helping to make the world a better place.
What other kinds of leadership might Anderson be using in this example that I might have missed? I feel that several are usually applicable, but that it can be easy to miss others once you have chosen one or two.
(Kellen Hill)
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Dead, but Not Forgotten
In this post, I want to focus on the leader we all know about, but might not think about; Michael Jackson. Michael Jackson or the king of pop, has seen decades of success in the entertainment industry, but many of us over look the fact that he inspired millions of dedicated fans. A true leader is what I would describe Michael as. Many of us stigmatize Michael in a bad way for his not so kosher acts such as changing race, but no matter how hard we hate on him we all will try to replicate his famous moon walk to Billie Jean the instant the song is played. Is this a coincidence or just traits of a born leader? I believe Michael has had this talent all along.
With the release of his post death movie, This is It, we see Michael as nothing but a hard driven inspirational leader to all those surrounded by him. By using Peter Northouse's situational approach theory comprised of four parts (directing, coaching, supporting, and delegating) we can see how he utilized a few aspect to the fullest. First, being a solo music artist makes Michael very directing towards his co-workers. His tour is one of the largest selling of all time. How did it get this way? By directing his staff to understand the underlying goal of his tour; Perfection= Success. His direction to push his staff to settle for nothing but the best is what made Michael's career so successful.
Following up with Northouse's theory, Jackson is a great coach to the people around him. As the saying goes, "practice makes perfect" fits excellently in this situation. Though his staff might have lacked the born traits of a pop icon, they we're continuously coached by Michael through constant motivation and supportive behavior to keep pushing. Overall, I think it paid off. There might not be another Michael Jackson ever to come around our time, but to know that we all we're in presence of greatness in the making shows that without his leadership it could have been nothing at all.
What are your thoughts on Michael? Is he a perfect example of a natural born leader or not?
-Nick Kulavic
With the release of his post death movie, This is It, we see Michael as nothing but a hard driven inspirational leader to all those surrounded by him. By using Peter Northouse's situational approach theory comprised of four parts (directing, coaching, supporting, and delegating) we can see how he utilized a few aspect to the fullest. First, being a solo music artist makes Michael very directing towards his co-workers. His tour is one of the largest selling of all time. How did it get this way? By directing his staff to understand the underlying goal of his tour; Perfection= Success. His direction to push his staff to settle for nothing but the best is what made Michael's career so successful.
Following up with Northouse's theory, Jackson is a great coach to the people around him. As the saying goes, "practice makes perfect" fits excellently in this situation. Though his staff might have lacked the born traits of a pop icon, they we're continuously coached by Michael through constant motivation and supportive behavior to keep pushing. Overall, I think it paid off. There might not be another Michael Jackson ever to come around our time, but to know that we all we're in presence of greatness in the making shows that without his leadership it could have been nothing at all.
What are your thoughts on Michael? Is he a perfect example of a natural born leader or not?
-Nick Kulavic
Gen X Takes Over
Gen X Takes Over
President Barack Obama is the first Generation X-er to be elected President. He is currently working with a team of both Generation X and Boomers, which may be a source of conflict depending on his leadership style. Considering the variety of generations in the White House, Obama will have to adjust his style depending on his followers.
Baby Boomers are generally thought of as more traditional and resistant to change, while Generation X is known more for their desire for challenges and new opportunities. When looking at the Path-Goal Theory, Obama would need to be more have a more Supportive style with the Boomers, because they are more traditional and aren't looking for someone to direct them and tell them what to do. With Gen X, he would need to have a more Achievement-oriented style, because they look for challenges and have a higher need to excel. Assuming that Obama is able to change his leadership style depending on the needs of his followers, he has a stronger possibility of being a successful leader to his followers and reaching whatever goals they set.
(Posted by: Tara Kaeb)
President Barack Obama is the first Generation X-er to be elected President. He is currently working with a team of both Generation X and Boomers, which may be a source of conflict depending on his leadership style. Considering the variety of generations in the White House, Obama will have to adjust his style depending on his followers.
Baby Boomers are generally thought of as more traditional and resistant to change, while Generation X is known more for their desire for challenges and new opportunities. When looking at the Path-Goal Theory, Obama would need to be more have a more Supportive style with the Boomers, because they are more traditional and aren't looking for someone to direct them and tell them what to do. With Gen X, he would need to have a more Achievement-oriented style, because they look for challenges and have a higher need to excel. Assuming that Obama is able to change his leadership style depending on the needs of his followers, he has a stronger possibility of being a successful leader to his followers and reaching whatever goals they set.
(Posted by: Tara Kaeb)
Jim Goodnight
Jim Goodnight is arguably one of the best corporate leaders of all time. SAS Institute was ranked #1 Best companies to work for, for the second year in a row this year. This is all thanks to Mr. Goodnights tremendous leadership style.
One thing I have noticed is that Jim Goodnight utilizes the situational approach. This is evidenced through his ability to ignore the situation and focus solely on the followers (his subordinates). I would argue that Goodnight does not change his style based on the levels of the followers, so in that sense, he wouldn't be classified in the situational approach. I happen to believe that Goodnight treats every employee the exact same, respectable way. For those unfamiliar with his beliefs, Goodnight creates an employee-friendly environment. He insisted that workers not only get individual offices, but also break rooms stocked with free refreshments, on-site gymnasiums and day care centers, and a team of company physicians and nurses. (Not to mention a remarkable on site cafeteria and masseuse!)
If you were to apply the leadership grid from the style approach to Mr. Goodnights' leadership approach, it becomes evident that he would be country-club management. Through his stern beliefs in creating an ultimate environment for the employees, one can clearly tell that he uses his leadership to address the people opposed to results. This is important because he feels that building interpersonal relationships, while deemphasizing production, individuals will be excited to come to work and contribute to a positive atmosphere, which will in turn lead to success for the company in the long run.
What other theories of leadership do you see emergent in Jim Goodnights approach?
For more information, check out the link!
http://knowledge.wharton.upenn.edu/article.cfm?articleid=2660
-Danny Mielneczek
One thing I have noticed is that Jim Goodnight utilizes the situational approach. This is evidenced through his ability to ignore the situation and focus solely on the followers (his subordinates). I would argue that Goodnight does not change his style based on the levels of the followers, so in that sense, he wouldn't be classified in the situational approach. I happen to believe that Goodnight treats every employee the exact same, respectable way. For those unfamiliar with his beliefs, Goodnight creates an employee-friendly environment. He insisted that workers not only get individual offices, but also break rooms stocked with free refreshments, on-site gymnasiums and day care centers, and a team of company physicians and nurses. (Not to mention a remarkable on site cafeteria and masseuse!)
If you were to apply the leadership grid from the style approach to Mr. Goodnights' leadership approach, it becomes evident that he would be country-club management. Through his stern beliefs in creating an ultimate environment for the employees, one can clearly tell that he uses his leadership to address the people opposed to results. This is important because he feels that building interpersonal relationships, while deemphasizing production, individuals will be excited to come to work and contribute to a positive atmosphere, which will in turn lead to success for the company in the long run.
What other theories of leadership do you see emergent in Jim Goodnights approach?
For more information, check out the link!
http://knowledge.wharton.upenn.edu/article.cfm?articleid=2660
-Danny Mielneczek
Monday, February 14, 2011
"Let's Move!" Campaign
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/02/08/michelle-obama-obesity-_n_820171.html?ir=Food
This article summarizes the campaign called "Let's Move!" started by first lady Michelle Obama. The campaign is meant to fight childhood obesity in the U.S. and get kids moving and eating healthy. I think that Michelle Obama demonstrates strong leadership characteristics by implementing this campaign. Mrs. Obama was able to see an issue that was quickly arising and made an effort to create change. Childhood obesity has been an ongoing issue for the last several years, but Michelle Obama is one of few trying to create a change effort. Instead of just reporting the facts about childhood obesity, she has created a plan to actually change and do something about the rising issue at hand.
I would say Mrs. Obama is demonstrating characteristics of the Path-Goal theory. She is motivating her followers (kids and families) to accomplish designated goals. She is trying to make the path to being healthy clear and easy by coaching and directing kids by educating them about making healthy choices when it comes to proper nutrition. Additionally, she is removing obstacles and roadblocks by working with food and beverage companies to lower their sugar and fat content and working with schools to provide healthy lunch options. Within the Path-Goal Theory, I believe Michelle Obama demonstrates two of the four leader behaviors (directive, supportive, participative, achievement-oriented). I believe that Obama demonstrates characteristics of a supportive leader, which entails being friendly and approachable, and attending to the well being of human needs. In order to promote the campaign, Obama has taken a friendly approach to reach out to the kids of America. The Let's Move website is very user friendly, allowing easy access and attainability. The facts presented to the kids, as well as their parents, is not overwhelming or complicated, giving Obama a an approachable feel. Additionally, this entire campaign demonstrates her concern for the well being of kids, following the characteristic listed in the supportive leader behavior. I also believe that Michelle Obama demonstrates an achievement-oriented leader behavior as well, which is described as the leader challenging their subordinates to perform work at their highest level possible. The Let's Move campaign is all about challenging kids to lead a healthy lifestyle and making the most out of their lives.
Do you think Obama becoming a directive leader will make the Let's Move campaign more effective? Also, Are there any suggestions you would make to Mrs. Obama if you could?
(Posted by: Kelly Yuen)
This article summarizes the campaign called "Let's Move!" started by first lady Michelle Obama. The campaign is meant to fight childhood obesity in the U.S. and get kids moving and eating healthy. I think that Michelle Obama demonstrates strong leadership characteristics by implementing this campaign. Mrs. Obama was able to see an issue that was quickly arising and made an effort to create change. Childhood obesity has been an ongoing issue for the last several years, but Michelle Obama is one of few trying to create a change effort. Instead of just reporting the facts about childhood obesity, she has created a plan to actually change and do something about the rising issue at hand.
I would say Mrs. Obama is demonstrating characteristics of the Path-Goal theory. She is motivating her followers (kids and families) to accomplish designated goals. She is trying to make the path to being healthy clear and easy by coaching and directing kids by educating them about making healthy choices when it comes to proper nutrition. Additionally, she is removing obstacles and roadblocks by working with food and beverage companies to lower their sugar and fat content and working with schools to provide healthy lunch options. Within the Path-Goal Theory, I believe Michelle Obama demonstrates two of the four leader behaviors (directive, supportive, participative, achievement-oriented). I believe that Obama demonstrates characteristics of a supportive leader, which entails being friendly and approachable, and attending to the well being of human needs. In order to promote the campaign, Obama has taken a friendly approach to reach out to the kids of America. The Let's Move website is very user friendly, allowing easy access and attainability. The facts presented to the kids, as well as their parents, is not overwhelming or complicated, giving Obama a an approachable feel. Additionally, this entire campaign demonstrates her concern for the well being of kids, following the characteristic listed in the supportive leader behavior. I also believe that Michelle Obama demonstrates an achievement-oriented leader behavior as well, which is described as the leader challenging their subordinates to perform work at their highest level possible. The Let's Move campaign is all about challenging kids to lead a healthy lifestyle and making the most out of their lives.
Do you think Obama becoming a directive leader will make the Let's Move campaign more effective? Also, Are there any suggestions you would make to Mrs. Obama if you could?
(Posted by: Kelly Yuen)
Sunday, February 13, 2011
A Green Revolution
This is an article I have from a different class that takes a good look at a well known green architect, William McDonough, and talks about his role in the development of the green revolution.
http://www.mindfully.org/Sustainability/Green-Architect.htm
I found it interesting, not only because of the content and the info about McDonough, but also because of how he has taken on a challenge. He recognized an area that needed change and found a way to make a change, and from what is written, it's pretty obvious that he's had a significant impact in what he's done. The main type of leadership he exemplifies is that of Expert power from his knowledge of how to create and design green buildings and use his abilities to create the change he wants to see in the world. While he may not be a highly visible leader, he is one that leads through his actions and through the projects he takes on as an architect.
I really liked this article because it focused on a person that wanted something to change, and did what was necessary to make that change.
Kellen Hill
http://www.mindfully.org/Sustainability/Green-Architect.htm
I found it interesting, not only because of the content and the info about McDonough, but also because of how he has taken on a challenge. He recognized an area that needed change and found a way to make a change, and from what is written, it's pretty obvious that he's had a significant impact in what he's done. The main type of leadership he exemplifies is that of Expert power from his knowledge of how to create and design green buildings and use his abilities to create the change he wants to see in the world. While he may not be a highly visible leader, he is one that leads through his actions and through the projects he takes on as an architect.
I really liked this article because it focused on a person that wanted something to change, and did what was necessary to make that change.
Kellen Hill
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Leadership Gone Bad
So, I was reading through my Fortune Magazine today and thought: "Why not use a story of an influencer possessing leadership, that was used for bad?" I find it quite interesting to hear stories of individuals with so much potential, who wash it away through illegal or unethical acts. This specific story is about a man named Tobechi Onwuhara.
To give a brief summary as to what happened, Tobechi lead a group of (7 or 8) individuals through an ongoing heist. This "crew" manipulated databases and lenders to siphon millions out of the accounts of homeowners using merely cell phones and internet connection. Through the course of 3 years, it was determined that he stole $44 million, according to the FBI (They believe the actual total may be between $80-$100 million).
Clearly the fraud that took place requires significant amounts of intelligence, or, to say the least, technological "savy-ness." This means that Onwuhara posseses impressive skill sets that most would envy. In addition to the massive amounts of skill sets required to pull of such a large scale heist, Tobechi also possesses leadership techniques that are vital for successful leadership. The biggest feature being motivation. He lead a group of people to engage in illegal activity, fully aware of the consequences!
He was no doubt a powerful leader, but it's a shame that his leadership was used to do negative things. With an individual with so much potential, it makes you wonder, "What if he had used this leadership for a worthy cause?"
For more information check out the link from the following source:
-Danny Mielneczek
When the CEO Job Is Split in Two
http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/09_41/b4150031727402.htm?chan=careers_managing+your+company+page_top+stories
The idea of a company having two CEO's seems unrealistic and difficult to successfully pull off, but for retailer Aeropostale, this is what they are convinced is going to work. Aeropostale's former CEO, Julian Geiger, stepped down at the end of 2010, and was replaced by president, Mindy Meads and COO, Thomas Johnson. This is an extremely risky decision for the company to make, considering the result that came from others with co-CEO's, such as Goldman Sachs and Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia. Meads and Johnson are said to work well together, but a situation that puts them both in the same position of leadership and power will test their leadership abilities.
As long as their egos don't get the best of them, and Meads and Johnson can maintain consistent behaviors in their leadership styles, the co-CEO situation could be a success for the company. They must lead together, as a team, instead of for only for themselves, individually. Their leadership and the decisions that they make should be seamless, and they must have confidence in themselves and in one another to be successful and to ensure that their team/followers are actually willing to follow them.
(Posted by: Tara Kaeb)
The idea of a company having two CEO's seems unrealistic and difficult to successfully pull off, but for retailer Aeropostale, this is what they are convinced is going to work. Aeropostale's former CEO, Julian Geiger, stepped down at the end of 2010, and was replaced by president, Mindy Meads and COO, Thomas Johnson. This is an extremely risky decision for the company to make, considering the result that came from others with co-CEO's, such as Goldman Sachs and Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia. Meads and Johnson are said to work well together, but a situation that puts them both in the same position of leadership and power will test their leadership abilities.
As long as their egos don't get the best of them, and Meads and Johnson can maintain consistent behaviors in their leadership styles, the co-CEO situation could be a success for the company. They must lead together, as a team, instead of for only for themselves, individually. Their leadership and the decisions that they make should be seamless, and they must have confidence in themselves and in one another to be successful and to ensure that their team/followers are actually willing to follow them.
(Posted by: Tara Kaeb)
Monday, February 7, 2011
Learning from the best
Steve Jobs as we all know is one of the most influential leaders our country as ever seen. He has transformed Apple from a once second tier company behind IBM and Microsoft to one of the most innovative firms in the world. This can all be attributed to his thoughts and beliefs as a leader. His business model pushes for simplicity in a world of technology where nothing is simple. This is what makes him such an influential leader. By using the style approach we can see how Jobs has relished in the task at hand without sacrificing the more important relationship aspect of business.
A good leader needs to be able to push his troops forward during the times of struggle and times of greatness. There is not a textbook out there that can formulate the success Jobs has had on his troops. By troops, many of us think about just the employees a leader oversees, but Jobs does more than that. He leads a cult. Steve Job's leads millions of dedicated followers who freeze their butts off waiting in line for the next new product to be released. Is this a coincident? I don't think so. His strive for constant innovation shows how his opportunistic approach to leadership constantly works. By giving employees and consumers a shared vision, he has built the frame work for one of the most sustainable firms we are going to see in the 21st century.
Check out the article below for a little more on Job's leadership approach!
Leadership of Jobs
~Nick Kulavic
A good leader needs to be able to push his troops forward during the times of struggle and times of greatness. There is not a textbook out there that can formulate the success Jobs has had on his troops. By troops, many of us think about just the employees a leader oversees, but Jobs does more than that. He leads a cult. Steve Job's leads millions of dedicated followers who freeze their butts off waiting in line for the next new product to be released. Is this a coincident? I don't think so. His strive for constant innovation shows how his opportunistic approach to leadership constantly works. By giving employees and consumers a shared vision, he has built the frame work for one of the most sustainable firms we are going to see in the 21st century.
Check out the article below for a little more on Job's leadership approach!
Leadership of Jobs
~Nick Kulavic
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