ABSTRACT
Although observers and authorities differ regarding the specific actions needed to create and maintain a successful organization, they all agree that leadership plays a pivotal role (Bennis, 1994; Hackman & Johnson, 2000; Kotter, 1988; Kouzes & Posner, 1987; O'Toole, 1996; Peters, 1987). There are literally thousands of books describing leaders or giving advice on what it takes to be a leader. History provides a laundry list of leg endary military, political, and religious heroes often seen as great lead ers. Anecdotal material abounds regarding specific organizational leaders such as Lee Iaccoca (Chrysler), Mary Kay (Cosmetics), Walt Dis ney, Sam Walton (Wal-Mart), Jack Welch (G.E.), or Bill Gates (Microsoft). The less-known founders or leaders of the Hondas, IBMs, Subways, and many local and regional organizations have been key forces in shaping their organizations (Harris, 1990). Remember Howard Schultz? He was the CEO of Starbucks, a coffee chain so successful that it is flourishing even during the downturns of the early 2000s (Schwartz, 2001). The aver age Starbucks customer visits 17 times in a month-for a cup of "special" coffee! When the company becomes a success story, investigators dis cover that the leadership activities were a key factor.
