You and your other German colleagues have a new boss, Susan Steel. Some of you know of Susan, a few have met her at company conferences, but none have worked directly with or for her. Next week Susan arrives in Germany as a long-term delegate and to begin her work. Because she wants to quickly get oriented, Susan has invited each of her German direct reports for a one-to-one talk. She would like to understand the expectations of her as the team lead, but also communicate her views about the optimal working relationship between team lead and team.

You’re in your home culture. In a similar situation. You want to help Susan to understand what makes for an optimal working relationship between a team lead and team. Describe that relationship.