This semester, we are learning about leadership communication from the standpoint of application an ...
This semester, we are learning about leadership communication from the standpoint of application and theory. Leadership communication is difficult to define. We know what it is, have experienced it in real life, but often struggle to come up with one accepted definition that everyone agrees on. Google the term on the Internet, and you will find a myriad of websites, blogs, and wikis, devoted to all things leadership and communication. Still, there seems to be no consensus as to the nature of leadership communication. Catherine Hollyman (2022), a leadership communication consultant offers this definition. She says she sees leadership communication as “The development and delivery of messages that inform, inspire, engage and unite your team behind a common purpose and goal” (para. 3). Northouse (2015) focuses on the practice of leadership, and while communication is clearly a component, his emphasis is more on the attitude, beliefs, and behaviors of good leadership. Good leadership and communication go together -- we can all agree. Yet still, there is much disagreement within the discipline of Leadership studies, and when considered from the position of applied communication, scholars and business leaders alike are actively working to find new ways to increase performance, engage workers, and build community. Instructions With this introduction in mind, the focus of our second research paper is to explore the nature of leadership as it intersects with a particular aspect of communication. For example, perhaps you are interested in the theoretical or philosophical underpinnings of leadership. You might produce an academic paper that looks at a particular theory (e.g., Transformational Leadership, Theory of X and Y, etc.) and demonstrate how the theory helps to explain and describe leadership communication. Likewise, you may be interested in how leaders use technology to communicate, and your paper might focus on mediated communication as a means for delivering leadership content. Lastly, your interest area may be focused on the principles of leadership and how crisis communication shapes and influences a leader’s role and effectiveness. No topic is off-limit; however, the paper itself should explore leadership and communication and be well-researched and offer insight and a unique perspective (not something one could easily find on the Internet if that makes sense). Step 1: Choose a Topic Topics may include any aspect of communication as it aligns with leadership theory or application. Step 2: Research the Topic This is a research paper, thus, plan on using journal articles, professional trade magazines, and other credible sources for your information. Step 3: Analyze the Topic
