LEADERSHIP AND ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE
In this paper I will discuss the effects and responsibilities leaders have on an organizational culture. I believe leaders have an enormous effect on the well-being of an organizational culture. Leaders must take an active role within their organization's culture. Whether positive or negative, in an organization, things tend to follow suit "down hill." A leader has the power and influence to maintain, create, or repair an organizational culture. However, this can prove to be a delicate and challenging task.
When trying to maintain a healthy organizational culture the leader has many factors that he/she must balance. Maintaining a healthy organizational culture may be viewed as an entire strategic
The third perspective is the "contingency perspective." The contingency perspective "suggests that it is the situation that makes the hero, allowing the leader to influence the organization in various domains, including performance and culture." (Zhang, Tsui, Wang, Xin, n.d., p.7) Basically the leader is needed more in critical situations which may require leadership, while the remaining time the organization runs as it is accustomed.
Creating and Maintaining a Healthy Organizational Culture
I personally believe that a leader's influence plays a large role in an organizational culture. However, in organizations with a strong, set culture it may be the culture controlling the leader. This can result in an unfavorable end if the culture becomes unhealthy. These driving forces may include for example, "union behavior." (Shivers-Blackwell, 2006, p. 1) It is important that the leader does not end up being controlled by the pre-existing organizational culture.
In order to prevent this it is important, especially for a new leader, to know and understand the organizational culture. A leader simply needs to be familiar with the "ins and outs" of their organization. Without understanding these factors it is impossible to influence or even maintain the culture.
To ensure an organization culture stays healthy I believe the leader must take an active role. There are many ways in which a leader can accomplish this. Communication and