Leadership, from the Tsingtao pre-seen case study

Q.1

Leadership, from the Tsingtao pre-seen case study, can be defined as a relationship where an individual influences the behaviour and actions of others. Drucker’s (1955) remarks held the position that leadership is majorly a talent. I do not fully agree with this statement, because leadership theories in the 20th century focused on identification of certain traits, personality patterns, and behaviors to different leaders from those that were not. However, dramatic changes in leadership theories have led to an increase in the functionality of leadership, thus introducing the concept of acquired leadership through learning, development, and mentorship (Channing, 2020). Now, leaders can be successfully trained and incorporate aspects of innate abilities to become successful. Yet, even with training, there is some aspects of leadership that is innate, calling for a revision of the definition to include both acquired and natural skills. From the Tsingtao pre-seen case study, it is clear that leadership was lacking due to a poor culture on the same. After the overhaul, leadership skills were imparted on managers through learning.

Q.2

Jin Zhiguo created organizational change via leadership. Specifically, he employed components of change of culture, management, and motivation to influence those under him to transform their attitude and values. The organizational culture at the time of his taking over was very poor and a carry-over from the state-owned corporate culture of laxity and conformity to traditional systems. He introduced managerial changes and a new corporate culture through leadership and control. He introduced a new HR function to track and monitor employee performance, staffing, and recruitment. By laying off individuals who were not performing, Zhiguo kicked off a new culture of requiring employees to be accountable. He executed a carefully planned strategy that included 100% transparency, telling the truth, communicating the plan, and creating a roadmap for all employees. He then conducted a managerial overhaul in order to see his vision reflected in the control and management structures of the organization. He introduced a corporate culture based on customer satisfaction and made the changes very gradual to minimize resistance.

References

Channing, J. (2020). How Can Leadership Be Taught? Implications for Leadership

Educators. International Journal of Educational Leadership Preparation, 15(1), 134-148.

Drucker, P.F. (1955). The practice of Management, Harper, New York.