APPENDIX B

Solution to Leadership Exercise

Situation 1

  1. This technique may work if you have proven leadership credentials. Since three of these people have not worked for you before, some action is necessary.
  2. The team should already be somewhat motivated and reinforcement will help. Team building must begin by showing employees how they will benefit. This is usually the best approach on long-term projects. (5 points)
  3. This is the best approach if the employees already understand the project. In this case, however, you may be expecting too much out of the employees this soon. (3 points)
  4. This approach is too strong at this time, since emphasis should be on team building. On long-term projects, people should be given the opportunity to know one another first. (2 points)

Situation 2

  1. Do nothing. Don't overreact. This may improve productivity without damaging morale. See the impact on the team first. If the other members accept Tom as the informal leader, because he has worked for you previously, the results can be very favorable. (5 points)
  2. This may cause the team to believe that a problem exists when, in fact, it does not.
  3. This is duplication of effort and may reflect on your ability as a leader. Productivity may be impaired. (2 points)
  4. This is a hasty decision and may cause Tom to overreact and become less productive. (3 points)

Situation 3

  1. You may be burdening the team by allowing them to struggle. Motivation may be affected and frustration will result. (1 point)
  2. Team members ...

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