Bruce Tuckman's Leadership Theory

Improved Essays
Ezeugo Okechukwu David

Abstract

Leadership is a process through which an individual influences behavior of others towards attainment of organizational goals. Leadership results in follower behavior which is very important aspect of goal-direction. Leadership theories can be classified into following categories: Trait theories: These theories identify specific trait or behavior demonstrated by leaders. If leadership is associated with specific traits, people with these qualities might not be leaders, and then such theories do not explain this behavior. Contingency theories: These theories are related to particular variables related to environment that determine which particular style of
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These leaders are focused on performance of group but at the same time also want each person to fulfill his or her potential.

One of the widely used theories for building teamwork is Bruce Tuckman's theory which was developed in 1965. The theory recognizes the fact that teams don't start-off in the desired way immediately. Rather, there are clearly defined stages through which teams grow. There are four stages which lead to building an effective team. These stages are: 1. Forming: This is the most basic stage of team building in which team is getting built and everyone is busy finding their place in the team, sizing them with each other and asking themselves question why are they there on the team. 2. Storming: Team members begin considering themselves as part of team. However, they might question team leader and each other about things like what team would do, what method would be adopted, and who would do what. It is in this stage only that conflict and confrontation crop up. This may result in loss of performance or focus on
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The environment has to be supportive to encourage employees to foster relationships and work as a team. Different cultures have to be managed along with different languages in such a manner that these do not affect organizational goals. It would be the responsibility of human resource department to make workforce aware of organization's environment. Managers need to conduct trainings of employees so that they are aware of differences and know how to deal with them. The leadership team needs to evaluate which leadership theory applies to the organization context. Using theoretical model, leaders can inculcate a sense of togetherness among employees. Employee morale needs to be boosted to encourage them to work for fulfillment of organizational goals rather than fulfilling their individual goals. Building communities is important during critical times. Leaders can organize social events for employees where they get involved in giving back to community. Giving back to others can leave a significant impact on employees' motivation to do something of value. Dealing with technological challenges could be through workshops which educate employees on technology and its use in organization. They could have an insider view to take technology as an enabler or tasks rather than a

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