Chapter 2: Being Aware of How You
Communicate at Work
Chapter Context
This chapter discusses leadership approaches; classical, human relations, and human resources
approaches to motivation; written rules, stories, metaphors, ceremonies, and artifacts that contribute to
Outcome-based Outline
Outcome
Learning Objectives
Critical Thinking
2.1 Analyze how being aware of
the social skills of the self and of
others helps to adapt effectively
to the communication skills of
others
2.2 Evaluate the different
motivational approaches
followed in organizations
Cultural Competence
2.3 Recognize the need to be
aware of organizational culture
for effective communication
Ethical Reasoning
2.4 Express the need to remain
ethical in all forms of roles in an
organization
Discussion Question Bank
This discussion question bank provides a listing of discussion questions (1-2 per module),
which are included for in-class use.
Module
Discussion Question(s)
2.1 Be Aware of Leadership
Approaches
1. What are the different approaches of leadership
qualities? Analyze each in detail.
2. Explain the two categories of functional approach
to leadership. Discuss how each category helps
in developing a person’s leadership ability.
2.2 Be Aware of Leadership
Assumptions
1. Discuss the different sets of leadership
assumptions that impact how leaders approach
motivation. Analyze how the concept of
motivation is based on various principles.
2. How can you increase awareness of your
communication skills? Explain how you can work
on the skills that can enhance the quality of
relationships you have with others.
2.3 Be Aware of Organizational
Culture
1. What is organization culture? Give a real-life
example and explain how it is communicated
explicitly and implicitly.
2. Discuss the factors that shape and reflect
organizational culture. Assess the five methods
by which leaders communicate organizational
culture through the symbols they use.
2.4 Be Aware of Organizational
Power
1. What is meant by power? Explain different types
of organizational power.
2. Discuss about the abuse of organizational power.
Explain different types of Internet sexual
harassment.
Research Assignments
The following research assignments pertain to the main topics and/or themes of the chapter.
Please respond by writing a paper consisting of 1,000-1,500 words.
Being Aware of Organizational Culture
Organizational culture includes what it feels like to be in an organization, and influences the
way you do your work. Write a report analyzing how closely you adhere to deadlines, how
quickly you respond to email messages, and how you observe unwritten rules. Also, discuss
Experiential Activity
President Barack Obama’s Commencement Address
Goal
To understand ethical decisions that affect our daily life
Group size
Entire class
Time required
Twenty-eight minutes to watch President Obama’s commencement address to
Arizona State on May 13, 2009.
Remaining time in class for discussion
Materials
Procedure
1. Watch Obama’s entire address to Arizona State Class of 2009 28 minutes
3. What ethical suggestions does he make to the graduates? The business majors?
The education
majors? The engineering majors? The Nursing majors?
Discussion
How realistic do students think Obama’s suggestions are to the class