Power, conflicts, and leadership

Transformational Leadership – Week 2 Summary

Power, conflicts, and leadership.  The discussion questions this week fit together nicely.  The discussion of the five types of power was new to me.  I knew there were different types of power, but had not seen them grouped so cleanly.  As was the definition of leadership, particularly the books addition of the phrase “the ability” to influence.  The team paper gave everyone a chance to exercise group editing and the opportunity to research some interesting companies.  The variety was good and highlighted the various approaches people take to achieve common goal. 

As we cover topics, it is interesting to see how these concepts pop into my head when something happens at the office. 

Virtual meetings and their impact on leadership styles

Transformational Leadership – Week 1 Summary

The week started outside the box with an interesting discussion of virtual meetings and their impact on leadership styles.  This provided a good opportunity for discussion to start and a good exchange ensued.  The second discussion question on emotions and attitudes provoked some more discussion, but things really seemed to get rolling as the conversation delved into the nuances of emotional intelligence versus cognitive intelligence.  The focus of discussion then turned to organizational culture, including its definition, functions, and ability to be changed.

The formation of teams seemed to go fairly smoothly, and the first team assignment was delivered in the form of a team charter.  The first individual assignment also was submitted this week, a leadership concept worksheet that pulled the topic of the discussion questions, the text, as well as a scenario and simulation all together in a neat little package.

Finally, the professor asked that students begin examining their leadership style.  I’ve had a few chances to apply this weeks information at work, and in looking back on those occasions I’d say my leadership style is adaptive to the needs of the group.  In my current environment that calls for a non-directive and lead by example approach.