Exemplary Change Leader Interview
In this assignment you are to interview an exemplary leader, someone who is currently leading change or who has led a successful change initiative. The assignment includes providing an in-depth analysis of the leader interviewed and his/her approach to leading change in an organization including the following:
An introduction to the interviewee including this leader's background; and why you chose this person as your interviewee; (2) the "philosophy of or approach to change" this leader utilizes, including specific examples of leading change; (3) describe what we can learn from this person's approach to leading change; and (4) integrate your analysis with the knowledge gained in this course. Here you will want to demonstrate the link between at least three change strategies discussed in class and the ideas presented by the interviewee; discuss the appropriate use of these strategies and apply the strategies to specific change situations presented by the interviewee.
5- Your summary should also include the three most important ideas that you take away from the interviewee, and the most important questions that you would pose to your peers based on your summary and critique of the interview. Indicate how the ideas from the interviewee will inform your own leadership and change efforts, include an articulation of your own point of view about effectively managing or leading change.
The product of your analysis a 5 - 7 page paper.
It is highly recommended that you send the interview questions to the interviewee prior to the interview; if possible audio record the interview for review purposes, and send a thank you note after the interview. The questions below are provided as a suggestion, you are welcome to incorporate and substitute your own questions as you wish, while maintaining the focus of the interview on the topic of leadership and leading change.
1. Tell me about a time you led a change initiative that went very well? What were the conditions or enablers that led to that outcome?
2. What do you think is important to do when leading change? What are some of your exemplary practices for leading change?
3. What are some of the common responses people have to change? How do you deal with or address these responses?
4. What are some lessons learned from a change initiative that didn't go so well?
5. What are your thoughts on leading change from the middle of the hierarchy? Is it possible to lead change from the middle and what is your advice to a middle manager who initiates change?
6. Describe the style of leadership needed to lead change well.
7. What is the role of followers in a change initiative?
8. How important is it to get broad input from multiple stakeholders when engaging in planned change? And what are your strategies for doing this?
9. What else can you share with me that you think would be helpful in learning to be a successful change leader?