1. Do you think communication is more important to leaders now than it was in Hitler's and FDR's time? Explain why you think so or why you disagree. Who is a more current charismatic leader that you know of, and how are they similar to Hitler or FDR in their communication style?
2. Consider the findings from the Ohio State and Michigan studies: Good leadership requires effectiveness on two dimensions – initiating structure, commonly called task orientation, and showing consideration, commonly called employee orientation. Evaluate a leader you know using those two dimensions of good leadership. Describe how well that leader manages both those dimensions. What is the outcome of their strengths or weaknesses in those dimensions?
1. Describe a situation that would call for a more task oriented leader.
2. In what situations would a more employee oriented leader be more successful?
Which orientation do you reflect in your style of leadership? Why do you tend to lean toward that style?