Everyday we are faced with moments of adversity. The choices that we make can make small changes or have significant impacts. Leadership is of the utmost importance in organizations and projects today. There are as many leadership styles as there are leaders. But knowing which leadership style to utilize when you are faced with a situation or project plan can make or break the success of the team.
In the case of the “Tent City” project, Sarah Baker, Smallsville city manager is faced with a big decision; a decision that can make a significant difference in thousands of other lives. Her willingness to support the massive emergency response fire suppression command and control center will require the support of a leadership style that fits the demands of such a project. There are certain factors that she will need to take into consideration:
• How much time is available.
• Types of tasks involved.
• How well those involved are trained.
• Stress levels.
The “Tent City” project will require thousands of workers, electricity, lighting, a water supply, field hospital and communications equipment. Also Sarah would need the assistance of private food vendors, the Smallsville County Hospital, and many private citizen volunteers.
Because the severe fire, there is not a lot of time available. There are many different tasks involved and if Sarah gets the different organizations and assistance that she needs, many workers would be trained. The stress levels would be high because of the short time frame and the disaster that lingers nearby.
Once Sarah accepts the challenge she needs to take action. She will need to adopt an active leadership style so th ...