Leadership (AQA A Level Business): Flashcards
Exam code: 7132
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- FrontWhat is Leadership?
Define leadership.
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Cards in this collection (27)
Define leadership.
Leadership is about having a vision, sharing that vision with others and providing direction.
How do leaders help a business meet its aims and objectives?
Leaders inspire and motivate others to work towards a common goal. This supports the development of a motivated workforce.
True or False?
Not every leader in a business holds a management role.
True.
Not all leaders have a management role, and only some managers are good leaders. Employees may follow a manager's direction without being truly inspired by them.
True or False?
There is one best leadership approach that works in every situation.
False.
There is no single best approach. Effective leaders adapt their style to the situation, which is shaped by a range of internal and external factors.
How does the nature of the task affect a leader's approach?
Routine, well-defined tasks can often be delegated with minimal supervision. Complex, unfamiliar or high-stakes tasks may need a more hands-on, directive approach.
Why might a new or inexperienced leader adopt a directive style?
A new leader may rely on clear structures and close oversight while they develop their understanding of the business and their team.
Highly skilled, experienced and motivated employees can be trusted to work with ______, as they have the expertise to make good decisions without close supervision.
Highly skilled, experienced and motivated employees can be trusted to work with autonomy, as they have the expertise to make good decisions without close supervision.
How does business size affect leadership approach?
In small businesses, leaders can use a personal, hands-on style. As businesses grow, delegation becomes necessary, moving the organisation towards a decentralised, empowering approach.
True or False?
Time pressure usually moves leaders towards a more consultative style.
False.
When decisions must be made quickly, there is less time for consultation, so leaders usually move towards a more directive style.
Which leadership approach suits a business pursuing innovation or cultural change?
Such a business is more likely to benefit from empowering employees, encouraging creative thinking and tolerating some degree of risk.
How does a rapidly changing external environment affect leadership?
Leaders may need to make quicker decisions with less information, keeping tight control until the situation is more stable.
What is likely to happen if a leader imposes a style that conflicts with the organisational culture?
The leader is likely to face resistance, regardless of their own preferences.
True or False?
A leadership style that works well in one country will be equally effective in another.
False.
Leadership expectations vary across national cultures. A style that works in one country may be ineffective or even counterproductive in another.
Define autocratic leadership.
Autocratic leadership is a style in which the leader has complete control over the decision-making process, with decisions not usually open to discussion.
Why is autocratic leadership effective in crisis situations?
Crises require quick and decisive action. Autocratic leaders can make swift decisions without lengthy discussions.
True or False?
Autocratic leadership encourages creativity because employees follow clear instructions.
False.
Autocratic leadership limits creativity, as employees must follow strict instructions and are closely monitored.
Define democratic leadership.
Democratic leadership is a style in which the leader actively involves employees in the decision-making process.
True or False?
Under democratic leadership, the final decision still rests with the leader.
True.
The leader takes the final decision, but it is informed by the views of the team.
Why does democratic leadership help a business implement significant change?
Involving employees in decisions increases the likelihood that they will support the change rather than resist it.
What are the main limitations of democratic leadership?
Democratic leadership can be time-consuming and may lead to conflicts and disagreements. Decisions may also be watered down by the desire for agreement rather than the best outcome.
Define transformational leadership.
Transformational leadership is a style in which the leader inspires and motivates employees, articulating a compelling vision of the future.
Transformational leaders focus on change, innovation and long-term _________ rather than maintaining existing processes.
Transformational leaders focus on change, innovation and long-term development rather than maintaining existing processes.
When is transformational leadership least appropriate?
It is least appropriate in stable, routine operations, short-term projects and highly regulated environments. It is also unsuitable when a business in crisis needs immediate operational decisions.
True or False?
A culture built by a transformational leader will always survive after the leader leaves.
False.
Transformational leadership relies heavily on the leader's charisma, energy and vision. If the leader leaves, the culture they created can quickly deteriorate.
How can transformational leadership harm individual performance?
It can create stress and anxiety if expectations feel unattainable.
How can autocratic leadership affect team performance?
It can undermine team cohesion if employees feel they have no voice. Resentment towards the leader can lead to poor relationships within the team.
Which business outcomes are linked to effective leadership?
Businesses with effective leadership tend to report higher productivity, better quality, lower staff turnover, higher customer satisfaction and greater innovation.
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