Kurt Edere: Advanced Fire Administration, Essay Example

Discuss the characteristics of most successful fire chiefs.

According to Kurt Ederer (2009) a key characteristic differentiating successful fire chiefs from ones who function in mediocrity encompass the ability to allow life experiences, opportunities and desires to shape  and nurture  leadership culture. Essentially, it is developing the techniques thatenable practicinga consistent leadership deportment. Subordinates must be able to model these leaders in pursuit of establishing excellence in executing tasks within the organization (Ederer, 2009).

This includes displaying composure under disturbing circumstances. Simultaneously, the interactions of successful fire chiefs among subordinatesultimately will produce integrity, respect and harmonious relationships in the work environment. Importantly, the quality of admitting mistakes will create remarkable courage,  which is emulated by other staff members aspiring to become fire chiefs in the near future

Explain the challenges that exist when transitioning from operational personnel to a management position in terms of leadership character.

One of the greatest challenges lie in adjusting roles from servant to master or that of taking orders to giving. In some organizations if the administration intends to promote an operational personnel into a leadership position a period of acting may precede the appointment. This is to enable a smooth transition from playing one role and moving into another. If it is inappropriately transitioned challenges encountered would be similar to an adolescent becoming pregnant and forced to act the role pf parent within nine months without adequate preparation.

Consequently, all challenges encompass adopting an appropriate leadership style and enacting a positive image. Often psychologically the chief may tend to forget that he/she is no longer functioning within the operation context. The urge to recline into that positon and meddle with employees at that level is great. Therefore, it is developing the ability/ expertise of still using operations knowledge and culture to function as a better leader.

References

Ederer, K. (2009). Key Characteristics of Successful Leaders. Retrieved on September, 19^th, 2014 fromhttp://www.firefighternation.com/article/command-leadership/key-characteristics-successful-leaders