Transformational Leadership

There are a number of different theories on leaderships and one of the most popular in recent years is the transformational style for strategic leadership and coaching of teams.

This effective leadership method has developed as many companies strive to stay ahead of constantly shifting conditions in their industries and with the advent of technology in so many fields.

The History of Transformational Leadership

Originally developed by James Macgregor Burns in 1978. According to Burns, this form of leadership involves a system where "leaders and followers help each other to advance to a higher level of morale and motivation". Later, in 1985, Bernard Bass added to Burns' original ideas with the idea that the degree of transformation in a leader is directly measured by how he influences his followers. By being transformational, a leader breeds trust, loyalty and respect in a team. In addition to driving a team with charisma and consideration for individuals on that team, they strive to find new ways to accomplish existing goals - identifying threats and developing new opportunities in response to them.

Understanding the Transformational Leadership Style

There are four components generally considered part of the transformational leadership style. These four components include:

• Individualised Consideration - A leader must see to the needs of his team members - always acting as a mentor and coach by listening and addressing concerns that they may have. Instead of remaining aloof and separate from your employees, you must show empathy and be supportive of them when they need your assistance. You must also celebrate individual contributions from team members, remaining vigilant of each person's accomplishments.
• Intellectual Stimulation - A leader should push the limit in taking risks, asking for ideas from team members, and tossing aside conventions. This will not only encourage your team, but stimulate creativity in ways that few other leadership styles can manage. Individuals with strong creative thoughts will be nurtured in this environment - making it very popular for software developers and creative fields.
• Inspirational Motivation - A leader should be able to articulate what they see in their team in a way that is inspiring and motivational. Being able to challenge your team members and watch them follow through is vital to being successful.
• Idealised Influence - A leader needs to gain respect and trust and instil pride in their team members for the work they are doing. This is a hard role to take on for many leaders who feel that pride should already be there. But, by showcasing good ideas and showing pride in your own work, you'll be able to breed this mentality in the workers who look to you for guidance.

The perfect transformational leader is someone that is able to see his team not as a tool to be used, but as a conglomerate of individuals whose input is invaluable. When you're able to respectfully listen to what each person in your team needs and wants to achieve, you're able to transform their doubts and worries into confidence.

In a world where the individual has become a far more powerful piece of society and where change is not just probable, but imminent, having a transformational leader who can grip the reins and take control of the direction of a company is vital. To be that person, you must be comfortable with yourself and those who follow you. Only then can you make the changes that are needed to truly transform your workplace.