Effective Leadership and Communication

American Red Cross - Effective Leadership & Group Communication

Sonji A. Hart

Com/530

July 30, 2012

Tonya Boddie

American Red Cross - Effective Leadership & Group Communication

The American Red Cross prides itself on its humanitarian response to people during emergency situations. As discussed in this week’s class reading, there are varying styles of leadership as well as several theories used to place an effective leader into an organization. “The Fielder contingency model – The theory that effective groups depend on a proper match between leader’s style of interacting with subordinates and the degree to which the situation gives control and influence to the leader.” (Robbins & Judge, 2011 pg.381) This theory believes that people have a certain level of leadership capabilities that can affect how they communicate with employees. An individual’s basic leadership capabilities are based on whether they are “relationship oriented” which is someone who relates to people on an emotional level or “task oriented” which is some who is driven by the tasks performed (Robbins & Judge, 2011). There are several other leadership concepts that have been discussed throughout the reading but the leadership qualities I believe would be most effective with the American Red Cross is a leader who is relationship oriented and authentic.

Given the devastation that many face during natural disasters it is necessary to have a leader who can create a level of trust not only with their staff, but with the people they serve as their lives depend on the kindness of strangers. “Authentic leaders know who they are, know what they believe in and value and act on those values and beliefs openly and candidly.” (Robbins & Judge, 2011 pg. 394) A leader who is relationship oriented seeks to develop connections with its employees showing a humanistic approach to getting work completed and knowing that family and life can sometimes take its toll on completing a job. This leader knows...