In: Operations Management
Power can be defined as the ability to bring about changes in the immediate environment. Power can be exercised by an individual, or a group over other individuals, groups, or organizations. How would an ethical leader and an unethical leader use power? Provide hypothetical or real examples to support your answer.
Usage of Power by an ethical leader: In a scenario where there is huge work pressure and works needs to be completed on weekends. A leader wants the support of their employee but asking employees to work on the weekend is a tough task and kind of demotivation for them
Ethical leaders approach: He invited all the employee on the floor for a short town hall and briefed them about the situation and informed them that he is coming to work on Saturday and he needs support from the team members. In return, he informed the employee that he will take care of the logistics and transportation on Saturday. Also, he informed that there will be small success party at the end of the workday.
His polite request to help is accepted by all and the entire team is ready to work on a weekend.
Usage of Power by an Unethical leader:
In the same scenario as above, an unethical leader simple sent an email to all employee to come to work on a weekend due to business requirement and if anybody fails to turn up on Saturday they will have to face strict management action.
Here is the difference in the approach of an ethical or unethical leader