Poor Leadership or Poor Following? A Case Study in Power, Perception, and Protocol – Menzies
Paper Title:
Poor Leadership or Poor Following? A Case Study in Power, Perception, and Protocol
Abstract:
In this provocative session, we explore a real-world case study where a part-time employee unknowingly challenges a senior leader’s sense of recognition—triggering retaliation and organizational fallout. Was this poor leadership, poor following, or deeper systems issues?
Through metaphor-rich framing, interactive reflection, and practical tools, participants will examine the invisible dynamics of power, protocol, and perception. This session invites leaders and followers alike to consider how ego, clarity, and culture shape our responses—and how we can lead and follow with greater integrity.
- Identify at least three leadership practices that prevent escalation and protect team cohesion.
- Diagnose where the failure in the case study sits on the continuum of leadership, followership, and systems design.
- Explore communication scripts to de-escalate public conflict and repair harm.
PMI Talent Triangle: Business Acumen
