Page 94 - The extraordinary leader

Simplifying Leadership • 71

9. A. Find ways to push through the changes regardless of unanticipated
problems.
B. Encourage people to reveal their true feelings, even on highly
emotional concerns regarding the changes.
10. A. Keep people focused on the changes, despite any frustration or
opposition.
B. Ask people to present their point of view even when it differs from
your own regarding the change.

Total “A” _________ Total “B” __________

Count up the number of times you marked answer “A” and answer “B.” As
you probably already discerned, this questionnaire is measuring two basic
approaches to initiating any change.

● The first is directing, monitoring, and pushing to make certain the
change process is moving forward in a satisfactory way.
● The second approach describes the way in which the leader creates a
climate of participation and involvement for all concerned.

We invite the reader to answer the question, “Which pattern of leader
behavior produces the most positive outcomes?”

1. Largely directive?
2. Highly involving and participatory approach?
3. A 50/50 mix of the two?

A: Directing Change
Behaviors associated with directing change are
Making tough decisions in a timely fashion
Providing vision to help employees see how the group’s work fits into the
big picture
Monitoring programs against clear standards
Actively encouraging people to find new and better ways to do the job
Ensuring departmental/work unit goals are consistent with strategic
business goals
Leading by example
Monitoring performance against clear standards