Ch 2 Flashcards
What is the ultimate measure of a man according to the text?
Where he stands at moments of challenge and controversy
This highlights the importance of character in difficult situations.
Why does the fire service need leadership at all levels?
To set direction and provide vision if there are no competent leadership at the top
Competent leadership is essential for organizational survival.
How does the fire service compare to the military?
It is a paramilitary organization but does not allow leadership to blossom within the ranks
Rapid turnover of leaders hinders leadership development.
Define ‘vision’ as per Army FM 22-100.
The ultimate sense of purpose, direction, and motivation for everyone in the organization.
What properties should a solid vision possess according to Peter Senge?
- Appropriate for the organization and its time
- Sets standards of excellence
- Reflects high ideals.
What are the components of a shared vision as per Micheal V. Harper?
- Provides a vision of the future
- Incorporates a measure of success
- Provides a sense of enduring purpose
- Transcends day-to-day issues
- Suggests how we are heading in both the present and future.
What is fundamental to commitment to the vision?
If commitment does not happen, probably nothing else will.
What does organizational climate mean in the fire service?
Creating an environment of fair, consistent, and communicative leadership.
True or False: Leaders should listen to employees’ complaints.
True
Leaders must foster a positive atmosphere for organizational growth.
What happens when employees are happy and encouraged?
They are more productive.
What did the author find advantageous as a unit commander in the military?
Taking a snapshot of the command climate.
What is the old saying related to preparation?
Fail to prepare and prepare to fail.
What challenges does the fire service face post-9/11?
A world perpetually fraught with challenges.
What is ‘The Tao of Leadership’?
An interpretation of the thoughts of the Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu.
What is a key role of a leader in the fire service?
To facilitate process and clarify conflicts.
What do flashy leaders lack?
Stability.
What is the difference between a profession and an occupation?
A profession requires training in the liberal arts or sciences and advanced study in a specialized field.
Does the author believe the fire service is a true profession?
No.
What could help elevate the fire service to a true profession?
Encouraging fire chiefs to achieve higher academic degrees.
What is essential for becoming more professional in the fire service?
Higher levels of education.
What must leaders in the fire service do regularly?
Publish their ideas in professionally recognized journals and magazines.
What does the author suggest about translating concepts into reality?
It is essential to take action on ideas.
What is often an impediment to progress in the fire service?
Tradition.
Why should change occur in the fire service?
Because it is a better, more efficient way to carry on one’s business.
What should fire service leaders communicate?
Education with experience makes an individual well-rounded.
How have poor fire service leaders been chosen?
By means other than merit.
What is the definition of a leader according to Webster’s New World Dictionary?
A person or thing that leads; a person who directs, commands, or guides others.
What is the difference between managing and leading?
Managers manage situations and issues; leaders lead people.