Mason: South-Western Cengage Learning, Research Paper Example

In Module One, the three leadership areas that were selected are crucial to developing into a holistic and all-rounded leader. While these areas are important, it is vital that one analyzes how the five practices of exemplary leaders can be applied to enhance and improve each area. This section will take into consideration the model the way and inspire a shared vision practices.

Responsibility

Responsibility is an essential aspect of efficiency and optimal performance. In order for functions to be effected, they have to be delegated. The trustees of these functions would realize optimal output when they take responsibility of their performance, as well as the group’s performance, and apply remedies to improve such results.

Model the Way

A leader takes charge by setting an example. As such, an effective leader would readily take responsibility for their shortfalls, as well as his team’s shortfalls. This fostered a culture of responsibility and develops a sense of ownership. The behavioral theory is an important tool that analyzes modeling the way in taking responsibility. Through the classifications of characteristics of a leader, a servant and task-oriented leader is effective in realizing responsibility amongst his team members (Lussier & Achua, 2013).

Inspire a Shared Vision

Endeavor to create a collective work environment that fosters honesty and responsibility. This is achieved with the help of fellow tem members and units within the organization.

Assertiveness

An effective leader has to be able to take control of situations so as to ensure calm and order. In doing so, assertiveness is a quality that is critical and useful in complex situations. Assertiveness is a quality that is associated with autocratic and task-oriented leaders, as described by the behavioral theory (Lussier & Achua, 2013).

Model the Way

Untangle bureaucracy when it obstructs action. Whenever the system becomes a hindrance to progress, the leader has to be able to step in and surpass bureaucracy.

Inspire a Shared Vision

Take into consideration every team member’s opinion when making decisions. Setting such standards creates a system in which all team members view themselves as equals, with the leader having ultimate precedence in decision making.

Effectively Communicate

Performance is optimal at the point where information flow is seamless throughout all functional areas and units. The behavioral theory attributes bureaucratic, democratic/participative and people oriented/relations oriented leaders to be very effective at communicating (Northouse, 2013).

Model the Way

Developing a culture of open communication and accountability is critical in ensuring effective communication. By having open channels of communications that are not limited to physical contact can be very effective in enhancing communication. Employing technologies and innovations such as smart mobile devices, social media and cloud services, leaders can model a new communication model within the organization.

Inspire a Shared Vision

Instigating and developing a collective organizational communication plan is integral in inspiring an efficient organization structure. Engaging all relevant stakeholders enhances the efficiency of such a plan and ensures evidence-based decisions.

References

Lussier, R. N., & Achua, C. F. (2013). Leadership : theory, application, & skill development. Mason: South-Western Cengage Learning.

Northouse, P. G. (2013). Leadership : theory and practice. Thousand Oaks: Sage Publications.