Why Teams Still Need Leaders

When people collaborate remotely, hierarchy keeps them moving in the same direction — but leaders can flex to promote autonomy and creativity.

Lindred (Lindy) Greer, interviewed by Frieda Klotz

July 24, 2019

In recent years, agile and flat working structures have gained favor at many companies and struck a responsive chord with employees who are put off by stifling hierarchies. But doing away with hierarchy can cause confusion, spark complaints from employees, and hasten departures, says Lindred (Lindy) Greer, associate professor of management and organizations at the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business and faculty director at its Sanger Leadership Center. While agreeing that rigid forms of hierarchy ...