Leader Interview Essay-If you choose this option
Part One:
Students are asked to conduct an interview of a leader of their choosing. Below are some potential questions:
What are the most important values you demonstrate as a leader?
How have you gained commitment from your team?
Do you feel that you have ever failed as a leader?
What is the difference between a leader and a manager?
What are your greatest strengths?
What are your greatest weaknesses?
How do you get others to accept changes?
Describe a time you took a leadership position when you did not have the title of a leader.
How would you go about getting cohesion among a team riddled with conflict?
What type of leader would your team say that you are?
How do you motivate your team?
How do you set an example for your team members?
What is the most difficult part of being a leader?
How do you measure personal success as a leader?
What motivates you to be a leader?
What characteristics do you feel that an effective leader must possess?
*The responses should be included in an appendix.
Please note- students do not have to ask all of them and are welcome to add additional questions.
Part Two:
Based on the answers to the questions, students will write a 2-3 page paper (not including appendix/abstract page) based on the interview. Items to include: information regarding the leader (keep the background information very brief-you may choose to keep their name confidential); examine the leader by applying concepts and theories explored in this course; provide your thoughts regarding their responses; match the leader’s approach or style to one of the leadership theories discussed in this course; explain why this leadership style or approach has been successful for this leader and make logical arguments supporting your case.
Please make sure that you are able to “check-off” each of these items before submitting an assignment.
- 12-point, Times New Roman font. Black ink
- Double-spaced
- 1†margins (top, right, bottom, left).
- Number all pages (APA)
- Scholarly writing (sentence structure and paragraph development)
- A title page
- An abstract page
- In-text citations (APA format)
- Reference page with scholarly resources (APA format)
- Running Head
- Scholarly resources (APA format)
- The paper is written in academic style
- Appendix with the Interview Responses
- All components of the assignment are met
**** The assignment must be accompanied by scholarly references in AIU APA Style Guide format. A good rule of thumb for the average work is three references, which can include the course text.
Consider the source before you include information from web sites. Who sponsors the web site? Is the information on the site supported by theory and research? WIKIPEDIA, Yahoo Answers, or similar websites may NEVER be used or cited under any circumstances, on any assignment, discussion, or response for this class. The reason is the lack of peer review thus the lack of information validity for such sites. You may decide to use such sites as a starting point, but you need to validate the information with scholarly sources
Grading Rubric
Component | Criteria | Percentage |
Content | Content indicates synthesis of ideas, in-depth analysis, and evidence of original thought and support for the topic. Deliverable requirements are addressed and understanding of material and writer’s message and intent are clear. | 30% |
Format |
Deliverable is formatted according to the APA Publication Manual (6th ed.). All materials are properly cited and in-text citations are utilized The paper includes: a proper title page, abstract, and a reference page. Inclusion of plagiarized content will not be tolerated and may result in adverse academic consequences. |
20% |
Critical thinking: | Position is well-justified and there is a logical flow. | 15% |
Structure | Includes introduction and conclusion, proper paragraph format, and reads as a polished, academic paper or professional presentation, as appropriate for the required assignment deliverable. | 10% |
Grammar & Mechanics | The paper is free from spelling, grammatical, or punctuation errors. | 10% |
Style | Shows outstanding style going beyond usual college level; proper use of sentence structure and coordination. Creativity is also displayed. | 15% |