GABRIELLE LAVENIACAPELLA UNIVERSITY

EDD8104

Segment 1 Case Study Analysis

Introduction

Alex Sanders and Thomas Green are leaders at two different companies.

Both do an excellent job with their work, however the way they work is not great.

Sanders and Green both need to improve their communication skills.

Sanders and Green need to improve their leadership skills.

Problem Statement

Alex Sanders and Thomas Green do not have effective communication skills which are hindering their careers.

Sanders and Green both feel they are excellent employees and the way they work is fine, and should not have to change.

Sanders and Green do not work well with other employees.

Purpose of the Presentation

The purpose of this presentation is to show how leaders can learn from professional development, mainly in the area of communication and leadership skills. The case studies followed two different managers and how they are successful with their work, but not necessarily in the steps it takes to get there.

To show the value of professional development: Both leaders weaknesses are overpowering their

strengths and professional development could help get them where they need to be.

Alex SandersAlex Sanders Thomas GreenThomas Green

Company: Landon Care Products, Inc.

Feedback through 360 Does not communicate well Does not treat others with

respect Needs more people skills Must learn to delegate

responsibilities Needs to stop being

controlling Behavior is effecting his

position

Company: Dynamic Displays

Feedback through email Does not communicate

well Fails to inform of plans Does not follow up Lack of enthusiasm Does not create

presentations or spreadsheet models

Behavior is effecting his position

Background related to the Problem

Guiding Questions

What are the benefits of having excellent communication skills? If the managers worked on their leadership skills, could their jobs be saved?

What kind, and how often should feedback be provided to the managers? If there is no follow through from the feedback what will be the repercussions?

What are the benefits of having monthly meetings, where ideas from everyone are heard and the staff can discuss concerns and greatness.

Analyzing the Significance of the Questions

In relation to the problem Jim Collins (2001) says the key trait of Level 5 leaders

is ambition first and foremost for the company and concern its success rather than for one’s own riches and personal renown

In relation to professional development needs “To be successful, learning must continue throughout

life, beyond the completion of one’s formal education” (Hughes, et. al., 2012)

Systems-Thinking Concepts

Related to understanding the need for professional development Workshop on how weaknesses can be turned into

strengths

Related to evaluating the significance of the problem related to the cases. Feedback should be given to all employees in a

company and with ways they can improve

Reflection on Professional Development

Though it is important to stay true to oneself, it is important to think about what is best for a company

Communication is a huge part in a successful business

Professional development workshops in communication can help everyone become a great leader

Summary

Though the leaders are doing well in their jobs, their behavior could cause them to lose their jobs.

Two different feedback methods were used to let the leaders know how they were performing.

Both leaders did not communicate well with the people they were leading or with their bosses.

Both leaders need to work on their leadership skills.

References

Collins, J. (2001). Good to great: Why some companies make the leap…and others don't. New York, NY: Collins Business. ISBN: 9780066620992.

Greiner, L., & Collins, E. (2008). A day in the life of Alex Sander: Driving in the fast lane at landon care products [case study]. Boston, MA: Harvard Business School Publishing.

Hughes, R. L., Ginnett, R. C., & Curphy, G. J. (2012). Leadership: Enhancing the lessons of experience (7th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill Publishers.

Sasser, W. E., & Beckham, H. (2008). Thomas Green: Power, office politics, and a career in crisis [case study]. Boston, MA: Harvard Business School Publishing.