BUSINESS

Leadership in an organization

Introduction

Leadership in an organization has an important role for all parties involved, and has lately taken on an investigative role especially in North America. It has been observed that before the 80's, leadership was based around the trends and development of traits, styles and contingency approach. Since then however, new alternate approaches have been making headway in large scale organizations to characterize leadership traits, motivational factors, perception and achievement of goals and so on( Katz, 1955). In this paper, I will be analyzing the American retail establishment Walmart's leadership front, in order to examine their successes and failures.

Discussion

Founded in 1962, Walmart came about as a much publicized brainchild of Sam Walton, who had already plenty of experience in merchandising and retail. Under his initial leadership, Walmart expanded throughout the nation with its success blazing a trail for all to follow. Through Walton's unique leadership traits, Walmart was also introduced in international markets, and several high scale achievements made the organization seem quite untouchable. The management and leadership styles utilized within the organization produced a corporate culture that was exemplified and went on to achieve success on a colossal scale, changing the entire landscape of retailing in America(Wal-Mart Retail Divisions, 2007).

 The organization was committed to valuing its customers and through effective leadership as well as management practices, Sam Walton was able to create a unique identity for Walmart, thus achieving his vision. Cost-cutting used to be one of the features of Wal-mart culture among employees, as everyone pitched in to ensure the company remained completely sincere to its customers and not spend the funds on their own. Walton would ensure that proper discipline in following business ethics were practiced, and was considered a most charismatic man by his peers. He provided goal oriented motivational factors but most ...