AL (Authentic Leadership) posits that a truly authentic leader must have a developed and internalized moral perspective, self-awareness, transparency in their dealings with others, and a balanced processing approach, where the leader is able to solicit feedback from subordinates and considers that feedback, even if it contradicts the leader’s own views and preferences” (Dickson and BiermeierHanson, 2014: 3).

Critically evaluate the publicly reported efforts of one world or business leader with respect to their capacity to illustrate (or not, as the case may be) authentic leadership traits during the COVID-19 pandemic response. Drawing on the extant literature, discuss how their approach has assisted or hindered their leadership obligations.

Question 2

Drawing on the case of any business examples as appropriate, discuss and critically evaluate the challenges and benefits of an embedded integrated organizational culture within a company as it expands internationally. Discuss paying particular attention to the interplay of organizational and country culture.

Question 3

Laszlo Bock (Former SVP of People Operations at Google) suggested “it’s not the company-provided lunch that keeps people here. Googlers tell us that there are three reasons they stay: The mission, the quality of the people, and the chance to build the skill set of a better leader or entrepreneur” (Davenport et al. 2010: 57).

Discuss and critically evaluate theories of motivation and job design as a method of retaining talented employees. In your answer, consider the role of organizational leadership as an influence on motivation.

Question 4

Drawing on literature about Nokia, and academic studies of organizational change and learning critically appraise Nokia’s approach to business. Drawing on current theory and examples, provide a considered recommendation to assist other organizations to avoid similar challenges.

Question 5

“We use influence tactics to persuade others to do what we want them to, sometimes against their interests or preferences” (Buchanan and Huczynski, 2017: 748). Drawing on contemporary theory, critically evaluate the tactics Steve Jobs employed. Discuss his leadership approach comparing his with that of another leader that you may know of from current affairs (e.g. world leader, business leader, community leader).

Both of the 2 assignment questions are worth equal marks. Therefore, whilst there is no expectation that you should write exactly 1000 words for each answer please ensure that you submit a balanced assignment, which devotes adequate attention to all of the questions. For example, if you find you have used only 200 words to answer one of the 2 questions then, it would be sensible to re-evaluate whether you have devoted sufficient attention to the question.

The answers to the questions for the individual assignment should be based on:

• Theories, concepts, and examples from practice presented in class by the lecturer.
• Theories, concepts, and examples from practice presented in the essential readings/preparation you are expected to complete prior to the lectures.
• Theories, concepts, and examples from practice contained in the further readings for the module.
• Theories, concepts, and examples from practice in any other sources you have found during your
individual research for the assignment including academic journal articles, books, book chapters, and so forth.