Transformational Leadership
ANSWERS
Transformational leadership is a leadership style that can inspire positive changes in those who follow. Transformational leaders are generally energetic, enthusiastic, and passionate. Not only are these leaders concerned and involved in the process, but they are also focused on helping every group member succeed.
The primary goals of transformational leadership are to inspire growth, promote loyalty, and instill in-group confidence in members. This article discusses the characteristics of transformational leadership and its effects on groups.
Components of Transformational Leadership
Bass also suggested that there were four different components of transformational leadership.
Intellectual stimulation: Transformational leaders not only challenge the status quo; they also encourage creativity among followers. The leader encourages followers to explore new ways of doing things and new opportunities to learn.
Individualized consideration: Transformational leadership also involves supporting and encouraging individual followers. To foster supportive relationships, transformational leaders keep lines of communication open so that followers feel free to share ideas and so that leaders can offer immediate recognition of the unique contributions of each follower.
Inspirational motivation: Transformational leaders have a clear vision to articulate to followers. These leaders can also help followers experience the same passion and motivation to fulfill these goals.
Idealized influence: The transformational leader serves as a role model for followers. Because followers trust and respect the leader, they emulate this individual and internalize their ideals.
Groups headed by this type of leader tend to be both successful and loyal. They contribute much to the team and care profoundly about the group’s capacity to attain its goals. Turnover tends to be relatively low as transformational leaders can inspire a great deal of dedication in their followers.
Traits of Transformational Leaders
So what are some typical signs of a transformational leader? Common traits of transformational leaders include:
- Able to urge others to communicate and participate
- Active listening skills
- Adaptability
- Authenticity and sincerity
- Creativity
- Emotionally intelligent
- Inspirational
- Open-mindedness
- Proactive problem-solvers
- Self-awareness
- Supportive
- Willingness to take responsibility
- Desire to take well-informed risks
QUESTION
Transformational Leadership
Transformational leaders influence those around them and therefore have the potential to alter the culture of a unit or organization. Effective nurse leaders consider continuing education and development an essential part of professional nursing. Please address the following topics:
- What professional nursing organizations are you interested in or currently participate in? ANA
- What nursing certifications or continuing education (graduate degree) might fit into your future plans? Masters of Nursing-Executive Degree
- Regarding your own transformational leadership skills, what aspect of the TEACH values discussed in the lesson do you think would most benefit your work environment if adopted? As a transformational leader, what action could you take to incorporate this chosen TEACH value into the work environment?