My style of leadership LO9076

DAVID REED (DPR9989@KGV1.bems.boeing.com)
Tue, 13 Aug 1996 08:53:04 -0700 (PDT)

Replying to LO8921 --

Threads like this are interesting in that they are as broad in perspective
as asking someone to define beautiful. To some, management is something (or
someone) to avoid. To others, it is a title to attain. But to me, management
is a set of tasks that must be performed by someone within a team. Let me
explain.

Within an orchestra, each member has a role and purpose and it is played out
collectively in the music. One player is the conductor. Not every member of
the group necessarily wants to ascend to the title of conductor. But, they
wouldn't mind trying it for a while. The conductor's role is to guide, help
the group identify it's vision of the perfect piece then strive toward the
goal. They help the individuals develop their skills and abilities. They
help the group resolve variability and they protect the whole group from
whatever conflict arises.

I have been very busy researching the organizational roles of HR and the
impact on management. To me, management is very much an equal player on the
team, no more important than any other individual "player" and certainly
less important than the whole. Management's role is not to direct, lead, or
be the people's advocate. Their role is very much like that of the
conductor.

If I was to address a new group of individuals, who I was working with as a
manager, I would first discuss my role with them, listening to their needs,
then learn what their collective goals were and each individual's role in
achieving the goal.(Most teams will have difficulty with this
discussion because they may not have clear goals or vision and they may lack
an understanding of their role.) I would also let them know that I assume I
will make mistakes as I assume each of them will. Then I would quote Scott
Adams (the Dilbert Principle, ppg 324) "Creativity is allowing yourself to
make mistakes. Art is knowing which ones to keep". Thanks, this has been
fun.

David Reed I believe the meaning of life
H R Strategy Development is not a puzzle to be solved.
(206)655-3245 M/S 11-40 I believe I may invest my life
dpr9989@kgv1.bems.boeing.com with meaning. (R. Fulghum)

-- 

DAVID REED <DPR9989@KGV1.bems.boeing.com>

Learning-org -- An Internet Dialog on Learning Organizations For info: <rkarash@karash.com> -or- <http://world.std.com/~lo/>