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Sir Branson Case Study

In: Business and Management

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Assignment 4
Lakeisha Churchill-Noel
Strayer University
Leadership and Organizational Behavior
BUS 520
Professor Marietta Lewis
December 2, 2012

Introductions In this assignment we will describe Branson’s leadership style in terms of the leadership models addressed in Chapters 10 and 11 and evaluate the likely effectiveness of that style in the U.S. today. Recommend a different leadership style (or combination of styles) that would make Branson an even more effective leader. Determine how Branson would develop and lead a global team working on a major project (e.g., space tourism). Discuss how I can incorporate some of Branson’s leadership qualities into my role at work or school. In the process of completing this assignment we will explain the variety of leadership theories and roles. Analyze the formation and dynamics of group behavior and work teams, including the application of power in groups.

Describe Branson’s Leadership Style in Terms of the Leadership Models Addressed in Chapters 10 and 11 and Evaluate the Likely Effectiveness of That Style in the U.S. Today

Merriam Webster’s definition of leadership is as follows: the act or an instance of leading; capacity to lead; and/or the office or position of a leader (Webster, 2012). The act of leadership can be viewed in several different ways. Branson’s leadership skills cover a wide variety of models. His leadership qualities encompass; transactional leadership; authentic leadership; and transformational leadership. Branson has managed to mesh all of these models together which appear to make him a dynamic and effective leader in the U.S. today. Branson utilizes transactional leadership which involves motivating and directing followers primarily through appealing to their own self-interest (Hellriegel & Slocum, 2011). He uses this method by promoting employees within. This leadership

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