2017 Theses Master's

Adjusting Your Sails to Survive the Storm: Adaptive Leadership for Stage Managers

Vaughn, Daniel Patrick

Adaptive leadership teaches individuals and organizations to deal with changing conditions through specific processes. This approach focuses, not on traits or other characteristics of a leader, but on actions of leading. Stage managers work with individuals with different personality types and can encounter unexpected problems within a production that they must be in charge of resolving. Developing the skills to adapt to these situations by changing their leadership style can make them a more adaptive leader.

It is first important to know what being an adaptive leader is. How is it different from any other leadership principles one has encountered? Adaptive leaders work out adaptive challenges rather than technical challenges. They also resolve conflict and make tough decisions in a way that works for the good of the company. They are able to remain inspiring to others even when a company is going through change. Examining these principles will allow a leader become an adaptive leader.

The world is changing swiftly around us all the time. As leaders, we must be able to embrace this change and lead our company towards the end goal. Being adaptable is one of the most crucial skills that any leader should have in their arsenal. Saying that you are adaptable shows that you are confident in what you do and you can handle stressful environments very well. Nothing lasts forever and if you want to be someone who rises to the top, you will need to know how to adapt and overcome the inevitable change that will occur in your life and your workplace.