We researched many different CEOs and narrowed the list down to three. After this we looked for explicit articles that explained and illustrated the leadership styles of each CEO. Upon reading these articles, we analyzed and dissected each possible theory that helps explain their leadership styles and how each affects the way they run their company .
What did we learn?.
Michael Dell.
Michael Dell is the well-known CEO of Dell Computers and will be the first individual we will discuss. He began his career by building and selling computers out of his dorm room at the University of Texas. Amazingly, his business took off from there and his company is now one of the largest computer manufacturers in the United States, making him the youngest CEO of a Fortune 500 company (Neff, 85-7). .
One of the most important aspects regarding Dell's approach is that he speaks primarily about his products. He does not like to bring attention to himself or his workers, therefore, making his product the focal point. Dell is a very coy leader; he does not like to focus so much on his own personal leadership style (Neff, 87-89). He is said to be "seriously introverted" which would contradict the trait theory of leadership (CIO.com, 1). According to the trait theory of leadership, extraversion is a trait more common in leaders. Since Dell is introverted, that may be why he shifts focus to his products, rather than himself. Dell's leadership stems from his products leading the computer industry, not necessarily from his leadership skills.
Based on the notes in class, behavioral theories are specific behaviors that differentiate leaders from non-leaders. Michael Dell exemplifies the characteristics of initiating structure because he structures his company and the task at hand towards more of the technical aspect of the job. He started his company by making the computers by hand. He knows the "nitty-gritty" of manufacturing and therefore, he focuses more on the fabrication of his products rather than employee issues.