Case 2.

1
Choosing a New Director of Research

1. Based on the information provided about the trait approach in Tables 2.1 and 2.2, if you
were Sandra, whom would you select?

Based on the information provided about trait approach I would select Thomas as the new
director of research and development at Great Lakes Foods. He would be the best
candidate because he can be the most successful in terms of the leader of the department
and besides he has the ability to develop healthy organizational culture. The case outlines
Thomas as having integrity, honesty and respect of his colleagues. His tenure has lasted
10 years, and he has contributed to the release of 3 new products to the market. As the
new director of research, he can help to unite the personnel and make employees working
effectively due to his integrity.

I think Thomas has more ability than Alexa or Kelsey. Though all three of them seem to
be worthy candidates, but Thomas seems to have shown these same attributes through his
achievements at GLF, and has the tenure and the respect of his colleagues to support it.

2. In what ways is the trait approach helpful in this type of selection?

Trait approach focuses on the characteristics of the leaders rather than the followers. In
other words trait approach shows characteristics and traits that are highly essential for a
successful leader.

The trait approach is helpful in this type of situation because the traits measured in the
trait approach to leadership are easy to identify in people. This makes evaluating possible
candidates for the position easier.
3. In what ways are the weaknesses of the trait approach highlighted in this case?

The weakness of the trait approach states that sometimes trait or characteristics that have
been provided about the candidates are uncertain. Everyone has traits but some may be
easier to pick out of an individual than others, and some may be beneficial. In this case
all three of them have leadership qualities, but in a decision like this one, more than just
an individual’s traits need to be taken into account.
 Case 5.1
What Style Do I Use?

1. According to the basic assumptions of situational leadership, where would you place the
three managers in regard to levels of development in the SLII model?

According to the basic assumptions of situational leadership, I would like to place:

Rick Nakano under D4 level. Because he is the oldest employee in the company
and seasoned engineer with better skills, ability. Who is perceived as very competent and
interested in the company by his coworkers.

Beth Edwards under level D1. Though she has a great experience in product area
but she does not have enough knowledge about the company. So, it would be wise to
place her under development level 1.

Steve Lynch under level D3. Because he is confident on some counts but very
insecure on other aspects of his job.

2. If you were Bruce would you act the same toward each of the three managers?

I would definitely not act the same toward each of the three managers. Their leadership
abilities are different from each other. As the owner of the company, being aware of the
differences will help the company to achieve its goals.

3. Which conference would be the hardest for you, and which would be the easiest? Why?

The conference with Beth Edwards would be difficult. She has great ability and skill but
lack of knowledge. She must be either taught very quickly the information she needs, or
she will continue to fail. Growing Bruce's confidence will be a challenge but relatively
easier than Beth. Though with his lack of confidence he has done some great job before.