What action should Russ Stafford take as a leader in dealing with the decision of the parent company, Axis Global, to outsource all IT work to a third party?
When dealing with a decision this big, Russ should begin by praying. The Bible states, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God” (Philippians 4:6, ESV). Once Russ opens up in prayer, then will he hear from Christ and know what to do. In the meantime, Russ should stay strong and just lead during this time. Being an effective leader in a time like this will show that Russ is the right person for the job. Accepting change at this time will show the employees that there is hope and light at the end of the tunnel. It will also show that he is a transformational leader.
What insights from the team leadership paradigm could help the IT team at Tappan Refinery during this unwelcome transition?
Russ’ leadership skills of being a transformational leader will show the acceptance of change from him to his employees. When an effective leader shows adaptation in a rapidly changing environment, the people around will adapt quicker than they expected to.
Leadership in organizations is important in shaping workers’ perceptions, responses to organizational change, and acceptance of innovations, such as evidence-based practices. Transformational leadership inspires and motivates followers, whereas transactional leadership is based more on reinforcement and exchanges (Aarons, 2007, pp. 1).
Adaptation and acceptance together will help the IT team overcome this period of transition in their careers. Resistance will only create confusion in the company.
What insights can you offer related to a leadership paradigm different than Team Theory?
Creating togetherness in a team involves individual motivation and selflessness. The other three team members should not worry about the negative, even though it is easier said than done, they should start to build and plan for their futures. If that includes them finding a new job, they should start now. Weighing out their options, the company should do something to help with the inconvenience, but since they are not, other plans need to be made. Keeping a positive mindset will help these employees through difficult times and transitions. Establishing a positive work relationship will create a better environment for the company’s staff and employees. This will show the togetherness of the company and show the employees that are worried about treatment that they have nothing to worry about. “…the entire team worries about how they will be treated by their new employer. Morale of the team members sinks, and with the likelihood of fewer positions, competition among them begins to emerge” (Northouse, 2021, pp. 485). Russ should also have a meeting with his employees to ease their hearts and minds and create a plan with and for them.
References
Aarons, G. (2007). Transformational and transactional leadership: Association with attitudes toward evidence-based practice. Psychiatr Serv. 57(8). https://www.doi.org/10.1176/appi.ps.57.8.1162Links to an external site.
Northouse, P. G. (2022). Leadership: Theory and practice (9th ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications.
The Holy Bible, English Standard Version