SPCOM227 Chapter Notes - Chapter 1: Impression Management, Laissez-Faire, Machiavellianism
10 Aug 2016
School
Department
Course
Professor
Document Summary
Followers prosper under effective leaders and suffer under effective leaders. Leadership is best understood from a communication standpoint. Leaders use language as most tangible tool for achieving desired outcomes. Frank dance defines symbols as abstract, arbitrary representations of reality agreed upon by human users. Meaning of symbol does not come from intrinsic properties of idea, concept or object being represented: value is bestowed upon it by those who use it. We attach arbitrary meanings to many nonverbal behaviours as well. Communication is based on transfer of symbols, which allows individuals to create meaning. Goal of communication is to create shared reality between messages sources and receivers. Pygmalion effect: human ability to manipulate symbols allows for creation of reality: labelling someone motivated or lazy can lead to changes in behaviour. We use symbolic communication to pursue things or to achieve goals.
