Question

In readings and lectures from Ch. 5 & 7 we discussed leadership theories and key methods and factors in decision making. Choose two of today’s leaders and compare and contrast their two different and unique leadership styles. Be sure to discuss the theories of each style as well as the utility and limitations of how these influence people and the way decisions are made.

Where in your own experience do you see these approaches to leadership utilized? To what extent do you see these two theories as being appropriate/not appropriate for your own leadership philosophy? Why or why not?

Answer 1

Two leaders are:

1. Ratan Tata

2. Adolf Hitler

RATAN TATA-

Introduction:

Ratan Tata one of the most influential personalities of India is an industrialist, philanthropist and a former chairman of Tata Group. He is well known for business ethics and philosophy. And is recipient of highest civilian awards of India- Padma Vibhushan and Padma Bhushan.

Leadership theories that relates Mr. TATA:-

(1) The Trait Theory of Leadership:-

According to this theory, leaders are born with some inbuilt traits or qualities that make them successful leaders or motivators. This stands absolutely true for Mr Ratan Tata. Because he is born with a legacy of Mr. Jamshedji Tata who was known as 'Iron Man of India'. Thus, qualities like integrity, ethics, visionary, empathic, critical decision making, assertive are predominant with him which is quite visible over the years.

(2) The Behavioral Theory of Leadership:-

Democratic leadership:

Democratic leaders are the one who always seek inputs from their subordinates before making a final decision. Me. TATA always believes in sharing and learning from the people and external resources rather than completely relying on himself for a decision. And he also ensure that management and employee stick to the company's values. He believes in teamwork and work for achieving the company's goal rather than fulfilling individual's interest.

(3) The Functional Theory of Leadership:-

As per this quality, the primary need of a good leader is to constantly asses the needs of their employees and try to fulfill it by various means and functions within the organization. Ratan Tata adopts following functions:

And Ratan Tata has an eminent quality of Motivating his employees and recognizing them.

He himself participates in various activities to make employees feel that he too is also a normal member of the organization as they are.

He believes in regular monitoring of work and giving regular feedback to employees to keep the work in track.

(4) The Transformational Theory of Leadership:-

Transformational leaders are the ones who set an example to the employees by actually bringing the change. Employees learn from them. Mr.Tata is known as 'Man of Values', 'A Man of Positive Behavior'. And today Tata is thus considered as one of the most ethical and best CSR company. Mr.TATA has always set an example by his humble behavior by helping the country and people in bad times.

Advantage (Influence to employees) or Disadvantage (Limitations) of leadership theories implemented by Mr. TATA:

Employees has a sense of ownness by working with such leaders.

Motivated employees always who perhaps increase the productivity.

Positive support from external stakeholders.

Increase in the Brand value of the company.

ADOLF HITLER

Introduction:

Adolf Hitler was the supreme chancellor of Nazi party and was leader of National German worker party. He was known as best for triggering the second world war.

Leadership theories that relates Mr. Hitler-

(1) The Trait Theory of Leadership:-

He had inbuilt traits of being Influential, Confident, Goal Keeper, Judgemental, Powerful, demanding. Some of his qualities were positive while few were negative and dominant.

(2) The Behavioral Theory of Leadership -

Autocratic leadership + Laissez Faire leadership :

Under his leadership, team members were not allowed to take decisions. They were just to obey their leader. Thus, Adolf Hitler is considered as an autocratic leader. Also his intentions were corrupt. He was also selfish in his motives. He interacted with team to only set targets, he was so lazy that he never guided them or told them the process how to achieve the goals.

(3) Transactional Leader:-

To an extent he is a transactional leader because he adopted the policy of rewards and punishment for getting the work done.

Advantage (Influence to employees) or Disadvantage (Limitations) of leadership theories implemented by Mr. Hitler :

Demotivated team members

Members feel that they are always dominated and have no authority

Carrot stick policy creates an environment of hatred of employees in the organization towards each other

No sense of belongingness to the organisation of employees.

In my personal opinion, in the recent 2nd century, leaders like Adolf Hilter will not work. Though he is considered to be ta successful leader because he made Germany the most powerful country after the second world war, his processes and strategies can not be implemented in business and in the current situation. Thus, for me Ratan Tata is an example of perfect leader.