Transformational Leadership
What Is Transformational Leadership?
By Kendra Cherry , About.com Guide
I do not know if I am a transformational leader, but I want to be one. This article provides a brief summary of the history of this leadership theory, and the four components of the theory advanced by Bernard M. Bass. The theory was introduced by James MacGregor Burns, who described the effects of this leadership as follows. “Leaders and followers make each other to advance to a higher level of moral and motivation.”
Who doesn’t want to be able to create a synergy like that? Boosting moral and motivation to achieve common goals will keep the organization from stagnation or death. It will also keep people who are part of the organization enjoying their experience instead of dreading it or not caring about it.
Bass’s four components of transformational leadership include “intellectual stimulation, individualized consideration, inspirational motivation, and idealized influence.” Essentially these components paint the picture of a leader who encourages creativity in the staff team, gives individual support and welcomes feedback from staff, and articulates a clear vision that stirs a mutual passion. The leader also serves a “role model” for others in the organization and a mutual trust and respect builds in their relationships as they work together.
Whether or not this a natural leadership style, it is certainly one that I will need to adapt. Many of us will be serving in churches in need of revitalization, vision, and change. We need to be transformational leaders in order to be effective in helping a church regain healthy levels of growth.
Preston, I love your first statement: "I don't know if I am a transformational leader, but I want to be one." Me, too! Maybe it is because, in my context, this is the type of lifestyle and leadership style that is emphasized above everything else.
ReplyDeleteIn reading this article, the thing I especially appreciate about transformational leadership is that there is consideration for the individual. That is so important, especially in our postmodern culture. People want to belong; but they also want to retain their individuality. I think this also goes along with the Biblical idea of transformation: everyone in the body experiences it for themselves.
I wrestled a little bit with the idea that "Through the strength of their vision and personality, transformational leaders are able to inspire followers to change expectations, perceptions and motivations to work towards common goals." I would argue that transformational leadership begins with the strength of the leader's vision and personality; but it becomes the culture of the organization. I think this is the best-case scenario of the church: transformation originates with Jesus (and in our connection to Him); but it also becomes our culture as we relate to one another.