12.6 Initiate or not?

In Chapter 7, Cheney et al. (p.190) they talk about the leadership style of those who "initiate" and those that show "consideration". According to the study that was conducted by Ohio State University in the 50's and 60's, they found that there were two important dimensions of leadership: initiating structure and showing consideration. When you stop and think about these styles, it would seem to most people that showing some initiative would be something you'd want in a leader. And yet, the book focuses on Mr. Tindall, owner of The Warehouse (in New Zealand) and his style of leadership. He says, "my job is to try now and nurture the leadership in the company and the well-being through our 'people come first' philosophy and make sure it goes right through the organization..." His consideration approach exemplified that he card for the feelings of his followers and creates a sense of belonging. The books states that you need to be a very good communicator to be successful in both of these styles. I believe that a leader that employs the consideration approach should be mindful of the vision and the importance of the contributions of the employees. This type of leader would not be one that micro-manages every event, project, or memo that passes through the administrative staff. This leader needs to be nurturing and meeting with the people (followers) that make the company 'great'.