How does the CEO’s directive leadership style align with or diverge from the principles of the path-goal theory?
In what ways do cultural differences between Silicon Valley and China influence leadership dynamics and employee motivation?
Based on the path-goal theory, what leadership behaviors could the CEO adopt to better support employees in a collectivist culture and enhance motivation and engagement?
How might the CEO clarify paths to goals, provide support, and remove obstacles to achieve organizational objectives in the context of expanding into China?
Case Study 2: Mergers and Acquisitions in Europe (Company B acquiring Company C)
How does the CEO’s participative leadership style relate to the principles of the path-goal theory?
What cultural factors contribute to the leadership challenges faced by the CEO in integrating the Swiss and German organization?
According to the path-goal theory, what actions could the CEO take to clarify paths to goals, provide support, and enhance motivation during the merger process?
How might the CEO leverage the path-goal theory to address miscommunications and misunderstandings arising from differences in communication styles and leadership expectations?
Cross-Case Comparison
Compare and contrast the leadership challenges encountered in Case Study 1 and Case Study 2. How do cultural differences impact leadership behaviors and organizational outcomes in each case?
Reflecting on the path-goal theory principles, identify common strategies that leaders can employ to overcome cultural barriers and enhance leadership effectiveness in diverse contexts.
How can leaders integrate insights from the path-goal theory into their leadership approach to better support diverse teams and foster motivation and engagement?