Dick Maresco is a very skilled electrician who was selected as crew leader for himself and four other electricians on a fairly complicated EMT bending and installation job. His individual performance is good, but his crew is behind a less experienced crew on the same job, and the other four on the crew have decided to avoid him, although Dick knows how to help them but prefers not to get involved. What leadership action is appropriate?

Dick Maresco is a very skilled electrician who was selected as crew leader for himself and four other electricians on a fairly complicated EMT bending and installation job. His individual performance is good, but his crew is behind a less experienced crew on the same job, and the other four on the crew have decided to avoid him, although Dick knows how to help them but prefers not to get involved. What leadership action is appropriate?

• A. Directive
• B. None required
• C. Supportive
• D. Coercive

Answer: (C)

The action that fits best here is supportive leadership. When a crew is behind and morale is low, especially with less experienced teammates, the leader’s role shifts from giving orders to offering guidance, coaching, and encouragement. Dick knows how to help, but his reluctance to get involved leaves the crew without the mentorship they need to improve and complete the task. By taking a supportive approach, he can actively engage with the team, share his expertise, coach them through the EMT bending and installation steps, help remove obstacles, and create a collaborative environment. This builds trust, increases skill transfer, and helps the crew catch up without resorting to punishment or simply issuing directives. Directing the team might push tasks in the short term but won’t address skill gaps or morale, and coercive leadership would likely worsen the rift and reduce willingness to seek help. Saying none is required ignores the current need for guidance and support.

The action that fits best here is supportive leadership. When a crew is behind and morale is low, especially with less experienced teammates, the leader’s role shifts from giving orders to offering guidance, coaching, and encouragement. Dick knows how to help, but his reluctance to get involved leaves the crew without the mentorship they need to improve and complete the task. By taking a supportive approach, he can actively engage with the team, share his expertise, coach them through the EMT bending and installation steps, help remove obstacles, and create a collaborative environment. This builds trust, increases skill transfer, and helps the crew catch up without resorting to punishment or simply issuing directives.

Directing the team might push tasks in the short term but won’t address skill gaps or morale, and coercive leadership would likely worsen the rift and reduce willingness to seek help. Saying none is required ignores the current need for guidance and support.