Based on the LGD activity, I’ve learned that Leaderless Group Discussion serves as a perfect medium in which all the members of the group are engaged and work constructively to outline a model which enables them to achieve desired goals while resolving differences and obstacles in group’s activities. In his metaphor “Leader as a Medium”, Wieck (1978) stresses the significance of group’s activities, environment, and performance outcomes in producing leadership qualities. Building upon this, Fisher (1980) stated that small groups create working models which in turn help them filter the plausible interpretations and fitting course of actions where appropriate. Fisher (1986) also asserts that when an individual assists the group in development trends, composition of the group, and help group adapt to situational demands, leadership occurs.
In the light of this, I strongly believe that when a group is presented with fragmented information, members first need to discuss and have a common level of understanding while predicting potential issues they might encounter. As I see it, discussions facilitate the group to create an action plan as well as help them to overcome existing barriers. Wieck (1978) explained that ignoring to collect information about obstacles might lead to unproductive group outcomes and provoke negative relationship among members. He points out that individuals are more sensitive towards their own prejudices than group environmental problems. This may weaken their ability in sending clear messages which reduce obstacles. In this regard, communication behaviours among the team members is crucial in attaining success. Therefore, LGD is more of a group process rather than individualistic since the authority is centred within the group rather than with a particular individual.
Strengths and Weaknesses – Self Review
Whenever I’m presented with a problem, I’d like to identify the key issues and collect important information which may be useful for future workings. While doing so, I also identify potential side effects and indirect consequences by discussing and reaching a common agreement within the group. However, I understood that rather than seeking more information from members I rubbed my ideas against them. It appeared like I made decisions based on my prejudices without seeking more information although I tried to resolve the conflicts within the group.
My greater concern is for the group rather than myself which made me to contribute regularly towards the group discussions. Despite the fact that I’m a regular contributor to the group, listening to the ideas of group members and providing feedback is something that I really need to work on according to them. At times when I felt the group focus is off track, I tried to take control of the situation and provided them necessary guidelines. Whilst doing so, I didn’t encourage others to build upon their ideas enough. Though I allowed everyone to express their ideas, I didn’t consider their input fully. Essentially, I didn’t respect their ideas enough according to them.
On a whole, I feel I’ve over exerted myself on the group decisions when I need to consider everyone’s ideas and encourage them. Taking control of the situation, compiling essential information, guiding the group at times when focus is off track, and regular contributions to the group are my strengths. Little consideration of others ideas, over exerting myself, and making decisions based on my prejudices appeared to be my weaknesses.
Areas of Improvement
According to Srini Pillay (2016), quality and level of communication within groups determine leadership qualities. He explained that quality of communication matters rather than quantity which means to have a greater coherence in the group communication patterns must be of greater quality. He believed verbal skills contribute a lot to smoother functioning of group. Therefore, I trust that I should allow other members of the group to speak themselves and encourage them to build upon their ideas where appropriate.
To achieve a higher level of coherence during group communications, finding a common ground is of utmost importance while upholding higher means of connection (Srini Pilllay, 2016). Thus, I plan to respect other member ideas in finding a common ground instead of rubbing my ideas against them and forcing them to accept. When managing other people’s emotions, it is important to step into their shoes and imagine how they feel (Srini Pillay, 2016). Moreover, he also maintains that when making a decision in a group, level of synchrony with other members plays a significant role not the authority. Over time, I expect to learn and master the skill of managing others emotions and predicting how my decisions impact them by requesting regular feedbacks and reviewing them periodically to measure my team working and leadership qualities.
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