Transformational Leadership

Understanding leadership can be a complex and difficult topic. Today, one of the most popular theories is Transformational Leadership. This theory emphasises the close connections formed between a Leader and their followers. These Leaders motivate and inspire people through their vision and high ethical and moral standards.

Research suggests that organisations led by transformational Leaders have higher levels of performance than those led by other types of Leaders. Transformational Leaders’ high expectations give their subordinates the self-confidence to persist in the face of setbacks, often resulting in exceptional performance.

The concept of transformational Leadership was initially introduced by leadership researcher Bernard Bass. Bass described four factors of transformational Leadership.

1. Intellectual Stimulation – Leaders not only challenge the status quo; they also encourage this in followers.
2. Individualised Consideration – the Leader acts as a mentor or coach to the follower and listens to the follower’s concerns and meets their needs
3. Inspirational Motivation – Leaders have a clear vision that they can articulate to followers
4. Idealised Influence – followers trust and respect the Leader, so they emulate and internalise the Leader’s values and beliefs

Transformational Leaders can come in various forms. However, what they have in general is that they:

• Stimulate creativity, innovation and change
• Act as a positive role-model
• Lead from the front
• Support
• Enhance their follower’s self-esteem
• Display high levels of ethical behaviour
• Empower others
• Communicate effectively
• Challenge the status-quo

This important topic, and much more, is covered in our exciting course Leadership, Innovation & Enterprise Skills, conducted this week in Dubai.

---