Ob Exam4

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1. As a result of a recent merger with another organization, a portion of the combined workforce will be laid off. As director of Human Resources, it's your job to communicate this difficult news to the affected employees. Although the organization is offering a substantial severance package, this news will be hard to deliver since it greatly impacts the lives of those being discharged. Your goal is to convey this information so that it causes the least amount of harm possible to employees' self-esteem while, if possible, maintaining a positive image of the organization. Which is the most appropriate communication medium to use in this situation? 

Explanation

Face to face communication is the most appropriate medium to use in this situation because it allows for personal interaction and empathy. Delivering such difficult news in person shows respect and sensitivity towards the affected employees. It provides an opportunity for them to ask questions, express their concerns, and receive immediate support. This direct and personal approach helps to minimize the potential harm to employees' self-esteem and allows for a better chance of maintaining a positive image of the organization.

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About This Quiz
Communication Styles Quizzes & Trivia

OB exam4 assesses key aspects of business communication, focusing on styles such as assertive and aggressive, and methods like upward communication. It evaluates understanding of effective communication practices,... see moreenhancing skills vital for managerial success. see less

2. _____ is a work practice in which an employee does part of his or her job in a remote location using a variety of information technologies. 

Explanation

Telecommuting refers to a work practice where an employee carries out a portion of their job from a remote location using various information technologies. This means that the employee does not have to be physically present in the office but can still perform their tasks efficiently using tools such as computers, internet, and communication devices. Telecommuting allows for greater flexibility, work-life balance, and cost savings for both the employee and the employer.

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3. Transformational leaders transform followers by creating changes in their ____. 

Explanation

Transformational leaders have the ability to inspire and motivate their followers to achieve higher levels of performance. They do this by creating changes in their followers' goals, beliefs, and aspirations. By setting ambitious goals, challenging their beliefs, and encouraging them to aspire to greater things, transformational leaders are able to transform their followers and bring about positive change within the organization. This type of leadership style is often associated with increased levels of employee satisfaction, commitment, and performance.

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4. _____ is defined as a process whereby an individual influences others to achieve a common goal

Explanation

Leadership is the correct answer because it involves the process of an individual influencing others to work towards a common goal. It encompasses the ability to motivate, guide, and inspire others to achieve their full potential and contribute to the overall success of the group or organization. Leadership is a crucial skill in various settings, such as business, politics, and sports, as it enables individuals to effectively lead and bring about positive change.

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5. Which of the following is a characteristic of leaders? 

Explanation

Leadership is often associated with the ability to inspire others. A characteristic of leaders is their ability to motivate and influence individuals to work towards a common goal. Leaders inspire their followers by setting a positive example, providing guidance and support, and effectively communicating their vision. They have the ability to inspire others to believe in themselves and their abilities, leading to increased productivity and success.

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6. Which of the following is the correct evolutionary sequence of leadership theories? 

Explanation

The correct evolutionary sequence of leadership theories is behavioral, contingency, transformational. This sequence represents the chronological development of leadership theories over time. The behavioral theory focused on identifying the specific behaviors that effective leaders exhibit. The contingency theory emphasized that effective leadership depends on the situation and the fit between the leader's style and the situation. Finally, the transformational theory highlighted the importance of inspiring and motivating followers to achieve their full potential. Therefore, the correct sequence is behavioral, contingency, transformational.

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7. What is not a takeaway message from trait theory? 

Explanation

Trait theory suggests that traits have an effect on how we perceive leaders. This means that the statement "Traits have no effect on how we perceive leaders" is not a takeaway message from trait theory. Trait theory emphasizes that personality and trait assessments should be included in selection and promotion processes, management development programs can enhance leadership traits, and intelligence is considered a positive trait for leadership. Additionally, trait theory acknowledges that corruption is a negative trait for leadership.

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8. According to the _____ theories of leadership, leadership is something that is learned. In other words, leaders are made, not born. 

Explanation

The correct answer is behavioral styles. According to the behavioral theories of leadership, it is believed that leadership is a learned behavior rather than something innate or inherited. This means that individuals can acquire and develop the necessary skills and behaviors to become effective leaders through training, experience, and practice. These theories emphasize the importance of specific behaviors and actions in determining leadership effectiveness, rather than focusing on inherent traits or characteristics.

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9. Which of the following action interferes with effective communication? 

Explanation

Speaking too quickly interferes with effective communication because it can make it difficult for the listener to understand and process the information being conveyed. When someone speaks too quickly, it can be overwhelming for the listener and they may struggle to keep up with the speaker's words. This can lead to misunderstandings and misinterpretations of the message. Effective communication requires clear and concise delivery of information, allowing the listener to fully comprehend and engage with the speaker's message.

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10. _____ is the exchange of information from subordinates to managers. 

Explanation

Upward communication refers to the exchange of information from subordinates to managers. It involves subordinates providing feedback, reporting progress, sharing ideas, and seeking guidance from their superiors. This type of communication is essential for managers to stay informed about the challenges, needs, and perspectives of their subordinates. It allows for effective decision-making, problem-solving, and fostering a positive work environment. Upward communication promotes transparency, employee engagement, and organizational growth by ensuring that information flows both ways within the hierarchy.

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11. According to the leader-member exchange model of leadership, in-group exchanges are characterized by mutual ____. 

Explanation

The leader-member exchange model of leadership suggests that in-group exchanges are characterized by mutual trust. This means that there is a high level of trust between the leader and the members of the group. In this type of relationship, the leader and the members have a strong bond and trust each other's abilities and intentions. This trust allows for effective communication, collaboration, and support within the group, leading to better performance and satisfaction for both the leader and the members.

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12. According to Fiedler's contingency model, _____ is an important component of situational control. 

Explanation

According to Fiedler's contingency model, task structure is an important component of situational control. Task structure refers to the degree to which tasks are clear and well-defined. In situations where the task structure is high, meaning tasks are clear and well-structured, leaders have more control and can exert more influence over their followers. On the other hand, in situations where the task structure is low, meaning tasks are ambiguous and unstructured, leaders have less control and their influence may be limited. Therefore, task structure plays a crucial role in determining the level of situational control a leader has.

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13. _____ leadership represents a general failure to take responsibility for leading. 

Explanation

Laissez-faire leadership represents a general failure to take responsibility for leading. This style of leadership is characterized by a hands-off approach, where the leader avoids making decisions, providing guidance, or taking control. Instead, they allow their subordinates to have complete freedom and autonomy in their work. This lack of leadership and direction can result in a lack of accountability and a failure to effectively guide and motivate the team.

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14. Contemporary trait research suggests that leaders posses which of the following traits? 

Explanation

Contemporary trait research suggests that leaders possess determination, honesty, self-confidence, and intelligence. These traits are considered important for effective leadership. Determination helps leaders stay focused and motivated to achieve their goals. Honesty builds trust and credibility with followers. Self-confidence allows leaders to make decisions and take risks. Intelligence helps leaders analyze complex situations and make informed choices. Therefore, all of these traits are believed to be present in successful leaders according to contemporary trait research.

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15. Which of the following is a characteristic of people with an assertive communication style? 

Explanation

People with an assertive communication style tend to use "I" and cooperative "we" statements. This means that they take responsibility for their own thoughts, feelings, and opinions by using "I" statements, such as "I think" or "I feel." Additionally, they also emphasize collaboration and teamwork by using "we" statements, such as "we can work together to find a solution" or "we should consider all perspectives." This communication style promotes open and respectful dialogue, allowing individuals to express themselves effectively while also considering the needs and perspectives of others.

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16. Consideration involves leader behavior associated with ____. 

Explanation

Consideration involves leader behavior associated with creating mutual trust and respect. This means that leaders who exhibit consideration prioritize building positive relationships with their followers. They focus on establishing trust and respect by actively listening to their employees, valuing their opinions, and showing empathy. By creating mutual trust and respect, leaders can foster a supportive work environment where employees feel valued, motivated, and are more likely to collaborate and contribute to the organization's goals.

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17. Which of the following is true regarding touch as a source of nonverbal communication? 

Explanation

People tend to touch those they like. Touch is a powerful form of nonverbal communication that often signifies affection, comfort, and closeness. When people feel a positive connection with someone, they are more likely to engage in physical touch as a way to express their liking or fondness. This can include gestures like handshakes, hugs, or even light touches on the arm or shoulder. Touch can help to reinforce social bonds and create a sense of trust and intimacy between individuals.

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18. With regard to the contingency perspective for choosing media, richness of information is gauged by how ____. 

Explanation

The contingency perspective for choosing media suggests that the richness of information is determined by how much new understanding it can carry. This means that the more new insights and knowledge the information can provide, the richer it is considered to be. This perspective emphasizes the importance of selecting media that can effectively convey complex and detailed information to the intended audience.

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19. A(n) _____ communication style is expressive and self-enhancing, but takes unfair advantage of others. 

Explanation

Aggressive communication style is characterized by being expressive and self-enhancing, but it also involves taking unfair advantage of others. This style is often forceful, confrontational, and disrespectful towards others, disregarding their feelings and needs. Aggressive communicators tend to dominate conversations, interrupt others, and use intimidation tactics to get their way. Their goal is to assert their own opinions and desires without considering the rights or feelings of others.

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20. One of the biggest drawbacks to telecommuting is:

Explanation

The biggest drawback to telecommuting is the lack of promotions. This is because when employees work remotely, they may have limited opportunities to showcase their skills and abilities to their superiors, which can hinder their chances of receiving promotions. Additionally, remote workers may not have the same level of visibility and face-to-face interaction with decision-makers, making it harder for them to be considered for advancement within the organization.

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21. Which of the following statements about the grapevine is true? 

Explanation

The grapevine refers to the informal communication network within an organization. The statement that it is about 75% accurate suggests that the information shared through the grapevine is generally reliable, but there is still a margin of error. This implies that employees often share accurate information through informal channels, but there is still a possibility of misinformation or distortion. It is important for managers to be aware of the grapevine and its potential impact on the organization, rather than trying to eliminate it completely.

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22. Which of the following is true regarding leader-member exchanges? 

Explanation

Positive leader-member exchanges refer to the quality of the relationship between a leader and their subordinates. This option suggests that when there is a positive relationship between the leader and the members, it leads to better job performance. This implies that when there is trust, communication, and mutual support between leaders and their team members, it positively impacts their performance. It emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships and fostering a positive work environment for better outcomes.

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23. According to the contingency model for selecting media, which of the following choices falls into the overload zone? 

Explanation

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24. According to Fiedler's Contingency Model, _____ refers to the extent to which the leader has the support, loyalty, and trust of the work group. 

Explanation

Leader-member relations in Fiedler's Contingency Model refers to the extent to which the leader has the support, loyalty, and trust of the work group. This factor focuses on the quality of the relationship between the leader and the group members. If the leader-member relations are strong, it indicates a positive and supportive relationship, which can contribute to effective leadership. On the other hand, if the leader-member relations are weak, it suggests a lack of trust and support, which can hinder the leader's effectiveness.

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25. According to Fiedler's Contingency Model, _____ refers to the degree of pre-arrangement contained within duties performed by the work group. 

Explanation

Fiedler's Contingency Model suggests that task structure refers to the degree of pre-arrangement contained within duties performed by the work group. This means that task structure relates to how clearly defined and structured the tasks and responsibilities are within the group. A high task structure indicates that the tasks are well-defined and there is a clear plan and process in place, while a low task structure suggests that the tasks are more ambiguous and less structured.

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26. Research on transformational leadership yielded which of the following? 

Explanation

Transformational leadership was found to have a positive relationship with organizational performance based on research. This means that organizations with transformational leaders tend to have higher levels of performance compared to those with other types of leaders. The research suggests that transformational leaders are able to inspire and motivate their followers, leading to improved performance and outcomes for the organization as a whole.

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27. According to _____ leaders have one dominant leadership style that is resistant to change - either task motivated or relationship motivated. 

Explanation

Fiedler's contingency model suggests that leaders have a dominant leadership style that is resistant to change. This model emphasizes the importance of the match between a leader's style and the situation they are in. Fiedler proposed that leaders have either a task-motivated or relationship-motivated style, and this style remains relatively stable and resistant to change. The model also suggests that the effectiveness of a leader depends on how well their style matches the situational demands and the favorability of the situation.

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28. According to the _____ model of leadership, leaders develop unique one-to-one relationships with each of the people reporting to them. 

Explanation

The leader-member exchange model of leadership suggests that leaders establish individualized relationships with each of their subordinates. This model emphasizes the importance of communication, trust, and mutual respect between leaders and their team members. By developing unique one-to-one relationships, leaders can better understand and meet the needs of their employees, leading to increased job satisfaction, motivation, and performance. This model recognizes that not all employees are the same and that effective leadership involves adapting to the unique characteristics and abilities of each individual.

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29. Which of the following is a characteristic of managers? 

Explanation

Managers are responsible for organizing and coordinating tasks within a team or organization. They create and implement plans, allocate resources, and ensure that work is completed efficiently and effectively. This involves setting goals, assigning roles and responsibilities, establishing procedures, and creating a structure that promotes productivity and collaboration. Therefore, organizing is a characteristic that is essential for managers to possess.

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30. Jim is the daytime supervisor for an automobile assembly line. The 45 people he supervises perform jobs that are relatively routine and require minimal training. The shop is unionized, so Jim has little latitude when it comes to dismissing poor performers. However, he does have the authority to transfer employees and has been known to reassign poor performers to less desirable jobs on the assembly line. Jim has a reputation for only transferring employees with just cause, and generally is viewed as a fair supervisor by his employees. Although he would like greater autonomy to determine salaries, Jim generally divides bonuses and raises equally among his employees. To do otherwise would likely create conflict with union members and representatives. According to Fiedler's Contingency Model, a(n) ____ leader is most appropriate in these circumstances. 

Explanation

In this scenario, Jim is a daytime supervisor for an automobile assembly line. The nature of the jobs performed by the 45 employees he supervises is relatively routine and requires minimal training. Jim's authority is limited due to the unionized nature of the shop, so he has little flexibility in dismissing poor performers. However, he can transfer employees to different positions on the assembly line. Jim is known for only transferring employees with just cause, which suggests that he is focused on accomplishing tasks and ensuring that the work is done efficiently. Additionally, Jim divides bonuses and raises equally among his employees to avoid conflict with the union. Based on these characteristics, it can be inferred that Jim is a task-motivated leader, making this the most appropriate answer according to Fiedler's Contingency Model.

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31. A key managerial implication of path-goal theory is that ____. 

Explanation

The key managerial implication of path-goal theory is that managers should use the leadership style demanded by the situation. This means that managers need to adapt their leadership approach based on the specific needs and characteristics of their employees and the situational context. By doing so, managers can effectively motivate and guide their employees towards achieving their goals, leading to improved organizational effectiveness. This implies that there is no one-size-fits-all leadership style, and managers should be flexible in their approach to meet the unique needs of each situation.

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32. According to the _____ approach to leadership, leaders produce organizational change and results because they transform employees to pursue organizational goals over self-interests

Explanation

The transformational approach to leadership suggests that leaders are able to produce organizational change and achieve results by transforming employees to prioritize and pursue organizational goals over their own self-interests. This type of leadership involves inspiring and motivating employees to go beyond their own personal goals and work towards the success of the organization as a whole. Transformational leaders are known for their ability to create a shared vision, empower and develop their followers, and promote a positive and collaborative work environment.

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33. Which of the following is not a formal channel of communication? 

Explanation

Management by walking around is not a formal channel of communication because it is a more informal and spontaneous approach to communication. It involves managers physically moving around the workplace and interacting with employees on a casual basis, without any predetermined structure or agenda. This type of communication is often used to gather information, build relationships, and address any immediate concerns or issues. Unlike formal channels of communication such as downward, upward, horizontal, and external communication, management by walking around does not follow a specific hierarchy or set of protocols.

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34. Announcing a large layoff with a routine memo is an example of ____. 

Explanation

This answer suggests that announcing a large layoff with a routine memo is an example of a mismatch between the medium and the message. This means that the method used to convey the message (a routine memo) does not align with the seriousness and sensitivity of the content (a large layoff). This mismatch can lead to misunderstandings, confusion, and potential negative effects on the employees affected by the layoff.

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35. As director of compensation at a large manufacturing firm, it's your responsibility to see that employees are properly compensated according to a biweekly time schedule. Many of your employees choose to have their pay checks automatically deposited into their designated bank accounts. However, it's still necessary to inform these workers that their pay has been properly deposited. What's the best way to convey this information? 

Explanation

Personal Static media, such as email or physical letters, would be the best way to convey the information that employees' pay has been properly deposited. This method allows for a personal touch while still being efficient and effective in reaching all employees. It provides a written record that employees can refer back to if needed and allows for any necessary documentation or instructions to be included. This method also ensures that the information is delivered in a consistent and standardized manner to all employees.

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36. Carol Collins supervises a group of eight bank tellers. Since bank tellers handle large sums of money as part of their job, they are required to follow strict guidelines regarding banking procedures. Carol recently transferred to this bank branch and was surprised to find the tellers were disgruntled with many aspects of their jobs. The tellers were dissatisfied with pay levels, benefits, mandatory overtime policies, and other aspects of their work environment. Carol's predecessor knew of the tellers' dissatisfaction, but did nothing to address the situation. Since Carol's predecessor ignored their concerns, the tellers expect Carol to behave in a similar manner. As a result, Carol has entered a situation characterized by dissatisfaction, discontent, and mistrust. On the positive side, Carol does have significant authority in her supervisory capacity. She is responsible for hiring and dismissing (assuming just cause) employees, determining the distribution of salary increases, and other administrative functions. According to Fiedler's Contingency Model, a(n) _____ leader is most appropriate in these circumstances. 

Explanation

In this situation, the tellers are dissatisfied and mistrustful due to their previous supervisor's neglect of their concerns. Therefore, a relationship-motivated leader would be most appropriate. This type of leader focuses on building positive relationships with their team members, fostering open communication, and addressing their concerns and needs. By prioritizing relationships and addressing the tellers' dissatisfaction, Carol can work towards improving morale and trust within the group.

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37. Two underlying characteristics of _____ leadership are (1) leaders focus on clarifying employees' role and task requirements and (2) leaders provide followers with positive and negative rewards contingent on performance. 

Explanation

Transactional leadership is characterized by leaders who focus on clarifying employees' role and task requirements and provide positive and negative rewards contingent on performance. This style of leadership is based on a transactional exchange between the leader and followers, where rewards are given in exchange for meeting performance expectations. Unlike transformational leadership, which focuses on inspiring and motivating followers, transactional leadership is more task-oriented and transactional in nature.

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38. You are employed as benefits director at a large academic institution. Currently, university employees are allowed to change their health insurance carrier, without penalty, on an annual basis. However, this policy has generated numerous complaints by university employees. They would like the freedom to change insurance carriers on a more frequent basis. After much negotiation with the state Health Care Authority and university administration, you have received permission to alter the time frame. From now on, employees will be given the option to change insurance companies on a six-month cycle. Your task now is to communicate this change to the 5,000 workers employed by the university. What's the best communication medium in this situation? 

Explanation

In this situation, impersonal static media would be the best communication medium. This is because there are 5,000 workers employed by the university and it would be impractical to communicate the change face to face or over the telephone. Interactive media may not be suitable as it would require individual engagement and may not reach all employees effectively. Personal static media, such as personalized letters or emails, could be an option but may still be time-consuming and may not guarantee that all employees receive the message. Impersonal static media, such as a mass email or a notice posted on a bulletin board, would be a more efficient and effective way to reach all employees with the information about the change.

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39. Initiating structure involves leader behavior associated with ____. 

Explanation

Initiating structure involves leader behavior associated with organizing and defining what followers should be doing. This means that leaders who exhibit initiating structure provide clear instructions, establish roles and responsibilities, set goals, and create a structured work environment. By doing so, they ensure that tasks and activities are organized and that followers know what is expected of them. This behavior helps to create a sense of direction and clarity, enabling followers to understand their roles and perform their tasks effectively.

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As a result of a recent ...
_____ is a work practice in ...
Transformational leaders ...
_____ is defined as a ...
Which of the following is a characteristic of leaders? 
Which of the following is ...
What is not a takeaway message from trait theory? 
According to the _____ ...
Which of the following ...
_____ is the exchange of ...
According to the ...
According to Fiedler's contingency ...
_____ leadership represents ...
Contemporary trait research ...
Which of the following is a ...
Consideration involves leader behavior associated with ____. 
Which of the following is ...
With regard to the ...
A(n) _____ communication ...
One of the biggest drawbacks to telecommuting is:
Which of the following statements about the grapevine is true? 
Which of the following is ...
According to the ...
According to Fiedler's ...
According to Fiedler's ...
Research on ...
According to _____ leaders ...
According to the _____ ...
Which of the following is a characteristic of managers? 
Jim is the daytime ...
A key managerial implication of path-goal theory is that ____. 
According to the _____ ...
Which of the following is ...
Announcing a large layoff ...
As director of compensation ...
Carol Collins supervises a ...
Two underlying ...
You are employed as ...
Initiating structure ...
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