INFORMAL LEADERS

Informal Leaders

Informal Leaders

Introduction

Informal Leaders, also known as opinion leaders, are members of group, who officially do not have any kind of a managerial position, but because of his personal qualities, experience and behavior occupied, he occupies a special position - leadership. Significant factors that determine the possibility of informal leadership include: age, position, professional knowledge and skills, personality psychology, personality, of which the principal - competence and responsiveness, recognition of the group (Brooks, 2009, p. 157-188). This paper focuses on the study of the influence that an informal leader can have on the group of employees working in an organisation.

Discussion

Critically Reflect On Power Bases That Informal Leaders

The informal leader is defined as one that influences other members of a group or team, in most cases, he is not recognized by the formal structure of power, nor receives any compensation or bonus. Furthermore, he does not even possess any right to interfere in the formal firing or hiring process. These are individuals who, without formal title or authority, serve as advocates for the organization and increase its contribution and that of others through influence, knowledge, expertise and building relationships, generally acting "under water" as facilitators and motivators (Brooks, 2009, p. 157-188).

However, an informal leader can become both, a serious problem, as well as, a reliable support for the head. Depending on the influence of the informal leader on the team, they can provide both constructive and destructive (positive and negative) leaders. Opinion leader's of constructive type affects the establishment and work of the staff in a positive manner. They initiate the exchange of information, to the realization of common interests, help in the adaptation of new employees and creating a corporate culture. Opinion leaders of the destructive type use their influence to sabotage the decision of the head; to resist change ...