Some of the leaders were readily identifiable. The parent could be seen and heard guiding family
members. For the teenagers, the leader
was usually the person who was more vocal and animated in trying to coax the
group. For some of the couples, the
leader could be seen gesturing.
Leaders are necessary for the group to function. For the family, the parent keeps the group
physically together, reminds family members of the rules and makes decisions
for the family. The leader for the group
of teenagers helps to identify what the group wants to do next and works toward
maintaining group cohesion.
Without a leader to accomplish these types of critical
tasks, the group will have difficulty in serving its intended purpose. The group will lose its way and cohesion will
be in jeopardy. Ultimately, the ability
of the group to function will deteriorate.
This absence of leadership creates a void.
Having a leadership void in a group can have a disastrous
affect. Symptoms of such a void include a lack of critical decision making
and significant problems not being addressed.
Another indicator of a leadership void is a lot of squabbling with the
resulting increased tension.
Left unchecked, these types of behaviors can lead to declining
morale which in turn can generate personnel turnover and lower
productivity. Trust wanes as confidence
in leadership declines. No one wants to
works in this type of environment, including the boss.
If these types of behaviors are occurring, then the boss
needs to figure out what they need to do differently and strap it on. This is
not an easy task as change can be daunting.
Chances are mistakes will be made.
Trying to be a better leader, even if it is not overly successful will
be seen as a positive.
The informal groups at the fair were having fun. With effective leadership, the work place can
be a positive experience which in turn leads to greater morale and enhanced productivity.
