Evaluation ch 8
Ouchi put forward the Z theory to explain how Japanese management works and to show the Americans what they could learn from their Japanese counterparts. Many advocates of the theory indicate that type Z companies are among the most successful types of US companies.
How do you account for their success, bearing in mind that the principles of scientific leadership still predominate in that country?
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One element of transformational leadership referred to in this chapter is charisma. Research shows that it is a universal attribute of good leadership. However, certain facets of charisma are valued differently in different countries.
Pinpoint which aspects of the leadership dimension outlined in Table 8.1 prevail in your country, especially in domestic companies.
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Companies are becoming increasingly aware of the need for relation-oriented skills in their global endeavours. Female managers working for Western companies, for exam- ple, could generally be regarded as potentially effective managers in, say, Asia because of their person-oriented leadership skills. The consideration women show others, as well as their ability to empathise, are features that are said to be held in high esteem in that part of the world.
Why do you think that some multinationals nevertheless tend not to give serious consideration to female candidates for managerial positions in, for example, the Middle East?
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When addressing the issue of global talent management, mention is made of the need to find a successful balance between setting global standardisation and implementing it according to local requirements. This is said to be the key to leaders ensuring quality management in the future.
What other key ways do you think leaders could use to ensure the same result?