LEADERSHIP AND LARGE SCALE ORGANIZATIONS
The author, John W. Gardner in the chapter, Leadership in Large-Scale Organized systems, states that a leader should have the ability to work with not just the segments of the organization he is assigned to, but also with the entire organization as a whole. He says that, “Leaders must understand not only the intricate organizational patterns of their own segment but also the workings of neighboring segments.” (Gardner, 1995, p.298)
Problems associated with large-scale organizations
The size of a large scale organization can cause lot of problems. “In large organizations the chain of command becomes excessively long. Decisions are slowed and adventurous moves blocked by too many screening points and multiple sign-offs.” (Gardner, 1995, p.299) In such an environment, a worker feels like an anonymous person with no sense of responsibility.
In such an environment, effective leaders try to pay more attention to people and open a two way communication with them. Participation from the workers is encouraged. This induces a sense of belonging in the workers. (Gardner, 1995, p.300)
As Tom peters says, “Listen constantly, congregate, or share ideas/information, and recognize achievement.” (Peters, 1998, 366).
Turf Syndrome
The author quotes Henry Ford, who referring to conflicts between his chief lieutenants says, “I try to remind them that the enemy is not the guy across the hall. It’s the guys out there selling Chevy’s and Hondas.” (Gardner, 1995, p.301)
According to the author, it’s not the competitors that cause the real damage to the company but the enmity between the coworkers. An effective leader should be able to encourage informal exchange among the workers so as to overcome the enmity. As the author states, “Effective leaders tear down rigid internal walls and bureaucratic enclaves, counter segmental loyalties through the creation of working groups that cut across boundaries, and foster informal exchange throughout the organization.” (Gardner, 1995, p.302)
REFERENCES
1. Gardner. John W. “Leadership in Large-Scale Organized systems." The Leader’s Companion. J. Thomas Wren. New York, New York: Free Press, 1995.
2. “Listen/Celebrate/Recognize.” Thriving On Chaos: Handbook for a Management Revolution, Peters, Tom. Harper Perennial: A division of HarperCollins publishers. 1998