Leading by Example at Soutwest Airlines

Leading by Example at Southwest Airlines

University of Phoenix

Leading by Example at Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines is widely recognized for their organizational culture. Their corporate motto of “doing the right thing” extends not only to their customers but also to their employees (Southwest Airlines, 2009.) Southwest Airlines is committed to provide a stable work environment with opportunity for personal growth and learning. This philosophy is supported by promoting creativity and providing employees the same concern, respect, and care that they are expected to share with every customer (Southwest Airlines, 2009) As one can imagine, the role of leadership is instrumental in sustaining Southwest’s culture. Herb Kelleher, Executive Chairman and Co-founder of Southwest Airlines, believes that every person in the company is a leader regardless of their position. As a result, their hiring process includes questions that look for leadership capability (Cohen, et al., 2005.) Considering the importance that Southwest Airlines puts on leadership, it is reasonable to assume that substantial changes in leadership styles or philosophies would have a dramatic effect on the organization. This paper will explore how different leadership styles would affect group communication at Southwest Airlines. It will also analyze the different sources of power and their affect on group communication. The paper will then identify different motivational theories and their potential role in group communication. Finally, this paper will describe the commitment of the workforce to Southwest and their relationship to communication.

According to Robbins and Judge (2007), charismatic leaders have a vision, are willing to take risks, are sensitive to their follower’s needs, and their behavior is out of the ordinary. Considering these criteria, it is safe to designate Herb Kelleher as a charismatic leader. Through his vision Southwest airlines has thrived. It is also safe to assume...