While assessing my leadership ability, I noticed that I tend to use expert and referent power sources. As it sounds, the basis of expert power is that of knowledge and expertise, which I use daily within my workplace. I take pride in the fact that I am in the position that I am in due to my knowledge and skill that I have achieved. “Expertise has become one of the most powerful sources of influence as the world has become more technologically oriented” (Robbins, 2001, p. 537). Fortunately, I am also adept at using referent power, which “…
develops out of admiration of another and a desire to be like that person” (537). I try to be very accommodating and understanding, while working diligently on all tasks. I take pride in building camaraderie with my co-workers so that they do everything in their power to please me. According to a Prentice Hall Self-Assessment questionnaire, “What is my Primary Conflict-Handling Style,” my dominant style is that of Collaboration. However, I am very competitive and tend to place my needs above others. Yet, I would rather collaborate with others to come up with a better suggestion.
Thus, allowing the individual to express their feelings and ideas, which we then can come to some sort of agreement. While growing up, I learned that if you cannot have pride in something that you are doing, you are not doing it well. I assume all employees should have a comfortable relationship with their supervisors. I want to be a respected manager that employees are not afraid to come to if they need help. Thus, I am recommending an emphasis on my motivational and listening skills in order to get the most out of every employee.
In an effective environment, leaders show employees that he or she will take risks and encourages others to do the same. This is where I believe a true motivation comes from, not just to work, but also to excel. To do this, I believe people need recognition, assimilation, encouragement, and involvement. People respond to individuals whom are available and show interest in them. Likewise, the importance of listening applies for anyone who hopes to communicate with others. Listening is the single most important communication skill and is where effective communication begins.
Active listening requires intense involvement in a conversation. I intend to focus on my concentration while in a conversation, after all, nobody is more persuasive than a good listener is. By applying active listening, I will make the effort to understand what others are trying to relay to me. Thus, with the addition of active listening, not only will I gain the respect of my employees, but also I will have added another skill of motivation. Globalization, human diversity, and ethical issues challenge leaders as they prepare for the future.
The changing world calls for leaders who react openly to the introduction of new cultural identities. Developing a leadership style in response to global awareness, diversity, and ethics will give leaders an edge as they build relationships. By understanding what it takes to prepare for these new aspects of leadership, leaders can maximize their potential as they venture into the future. Much like sheep needing a Sheppard, a group needs a leader to guide them in the right direction.
