SLU Leadership and Competition Active Learning Discussion

Sean is a well-respected lead of a company that that makes plastic parts for other companies, including manufacturers of printers, television sets, computers, and washing machines. Although the company is small, it appears that everyone is pulling their weight to make the company run as smoothly as possible. Because of this, Sean’s department meets their goal on a regular basis. However, there is one small problem that Sean has been dealing with. The problem is Phil who is one of the technicians that works under him. He has heard from several people including Karen the administrative support person, who advised that the comments Phil made were negative and unprofessional. On Phil’s Facebook page, Sean noticed the following post, “Life isn’t always so easy when you know much more than your boss” (Durbin, 2019). Although Sean can’t prove the post was meant for him, he still views it as hurtful.

Questions

• What kind of a leadership issue is Sean dealing with?

The leadership issue that Sean seems to be dealing with is that of competitive nature. According to Andrew Durbin, “A person with a competitive orientation is likely to engage in win–lose power struggles” (2019). Phil seems to be trying to compete with Sean in reference to the attention (positive feedback) that he gets from the other staff members. Phil is allowing his jealously towards Sean to take control over his ability to focus on his job and is also making the other coworkers feel uncomfortable with the unprofessional comments being made.

• What do you recommend that Sean do about his conflict with Phil?

I would recommend Sean listen first to investigate what the other side (Phil) wants and what is his reason for mocking Sean. Although it might be hard for Sean to do, listening will help him better understand why Phil is doing what he is doing behind his back. Phil actions comes across like he has no respect for Sean the person nor Sean the employee. His actions also show a form of jealously because of how he may be viewed by his peers. Another way Sean could resolve the issue is by still showing Phil a form of respect. I’ve seen time and time again that people like Phil don’t know how to respond when they are still shown the proper respect by a person who they have disrespected. By showing Phil respect, it shows not only is he the bigger person about the situation, but how he also refuses to step out of character because of someone else’s actions. no less than 100 words and respond to this persons discussion