Monthly Archives: June 2013

A couple of questions to ponder:  How would I describe my leadership style?  Do I lead by example?  Do I delegate?  Do I rule by consensus?

Honestly, I am still honing my leadership style…at least at work anyway.  I have only had about a year of direct supervisory experience so I am still learning how best to manage a team.  I currently have 3 direct reports but this number is expected to grow over the next couple of months as we build out the department and fill staffing needs.  So considering my style and ways to change or improve are important at this point.

Objectively speaking, I’d say my style is a combination of leading by example, delegation and consensus.   This may sound as if I’m just covering all bases but with a team as small as mine, I feel the manager must be nimble and flexible in order to make the process work.  For instance, I lead by example when it comes to behavior and professionalism.  I’ve found that it’s better to guide employees towards the behavior you want them to exhibit when you are actually taking part in it too.  Therefore, I make sure to come to work on time, dressed appropriately.  On the chance that I am late, I inform everyone and make up my time (even when my boss is not around or doesn’t request me to do so.)  By showing my reports that I follow the same rules as they do, a relationship of trust and respect can develop.

I also delegate when appropriate.  I didn’t always do this because in the past I believed my way was the best way.  But through experience I recognized that ‘there is more than 1 way to skin a cat’ and so I apply that theory and look to delegate tasks to the person with the corresponding skill set.  This reduces my stress but also improves efficiency. 

Lastly, there are often times when crucial decisions need to be made.  Due to the small size of the group it is especially important for everyone to feel heard.  Therefore, I will put certain items to a vote or move forward with the group’s consensus versus making the decision independently.

Working in teams: In business and business school, students are often asked to work in teams. What are some of the challenges faced on team projects? What role does communication play with teams? How important is digital communication with teams?

My biggest challenge with team work is time management.  Especially at Baruch, some students work full time in addition to full class loads whereas other students do not work at all.  This can be challenging when certain members want items completed well in advance, while others won’t have the time to get to an assignment until 2 days before it’s due.  Open communication is what saves the group dynamic.  Personally, if I know I’m swamped with work and unable to get to a project or meet with my group, I let the members know immediately and also offer alternatives so they know I’m invested in the project.  Reliance on digital communication is number 1 for me, but I have been in groups where in person meetings are preferred.  In these cases, I usually compromise by meeting at least once before I insist on virtual meetings and email exchanges.

Welcome to Blogs@Baruch!

This is your first post. Edit or delete it, then start blogging.