Harpo: the Potential Dangers of Having one Leader of an Organization - Essay Example

CASE: HARPO
1. Because Oprah attached her name to that project and was a highly visible face for it, some people may link the abuse to Oprah and subsequently to Harpo as a company. While the scandal passed without much damage to Oprah and her brand, it shows what could happen if a company is more famous for its powerful leader than its brand image.

2. How might Winfrey go about ensuring that Harpo survives after her departure or in the event of a loss of faith on the part of the public? Is it possible to have a true leadership succession plan in these circumstances?

Winfrey can help to ensure the future success of Harpo by making both short-term and long-term plans as to the future direction of the company. This can include the issue of leadership. Potential leaders should be identified and receive training to be able to enhance their skills. Ideally, these future leaders can receive some smaller tasks to get used to how the organization functions, and over time they can be given more responsibility. At the same time, Winfrey should be decreasing her role in the organization slowly so that she can guide the future leaders before she leaves the company. If Winfrey leaves the succession plan too long, then she may be forced to leave suddenly, which would require someone else to step up to the plate. That person would likely be overwhelmed at first and the company would suffer as a result. It is possible to have a true leadership succession plan, and it is wise for powerful leaders to create one. Harpo needs to include Winfrey in this process so that she can impart her wisdom and knowledge to the next leader, whoever that may be.

3. As a holder of immense referent power, what types of concerns should Oprah Winfrey have in terms of influencing the employees around her?
In terms of influencing the employees around her, Oprah needs to be careful not to dismiss the concerns of others. Just because she holds most of the power within the company, it does not mean that she should not be receptive to new ideas. Employees may be in awe of Oprah due to her accomplishments and standing in society, but they need to treat her like any other leader and show respect without blindly following everything that is said. Oprah should try to get to know her employees on a more interpersonal basis so that some of the aura surrounding her is diminished. This way, employees can be more critical and offer opinions without fear of being shot down or dismissed. Finally, Oprah must make sure that her messages are getting through by holding regular meetings.