LEADERSHIP INTERVIEW:

Set up an interview with someone that you think has demonstrated effective leadership. It could be your Supervisor, Director, Business Owner, Principal, or Assistant Principal, for example. Using your textbook and other readings, formulate at least 10 questions that would give your insight into why he/she does certain things (as opposed to what he/she does). Although you may ask about responsibilities and tasks, you want to delve into the leadership philosophy that drives the actions. In your paper, state who you interviewed, a little bit about him/her, and why you chose this person. Then, you may summarize your questions and responses in narrative form, or you may write your questions followed by the responses (which can be paraphrased). Conclude with a summary by responding to these questions: What did you learn from this experience? What dominant leadership style does your interviewee have? What effective leadership characteristics were most evident during your interview? Did you hear of successful strategies that you will incorporate into your leadership style?

ORGANIZATIONAL ANALYSIS:

Following the interview, you should have an even stronger understanding of the leadership and the organizational philosophy of this particular work setting. Prepare a brief analysis of your organization’s effectiveness. Use these questions to guide your thinking: How is your work setting organized (often there is a formal organization and an informal organization)? Is power shared? How are decisions made? Do you see evidence of principle-centered leadership in your workplace? What are the strengths and weaknesses of your organization? What improvements might you suggest?

This paper should be approximately 6 pages (including a cover page). You may write in the first person and no references are required.