Manifestations of Transformational Leadership

Transformational Leadership

The transformational leader engages with others in such a way that the leaders and followers raise one another to higher levels of motivation and morality. In transformational leadership, it is important that the leader should address the true needs of the followers, and lead followers towards fulfillment of those needs. Transformational leadership consists of seven components according to Carless SA, et al. (2000): Vision, Staff Development, Supportive Leadership, Empowerment, Innovative Thinking, Lead by Example and Charisma. Strong support for the value of transformational leadership suggests that it leads to a sense of collective identity, results in enhanced sense of reverence, and develops trust and satisfaction with the leader. Studies have also shown that transformational leaders significantly energized followers and enhanced their motivation, morality and empowerment.

Self-Score: 3, 3, 4, 3, 4, 2, 3

Average Self-Score: 22/7 = 3.14

Co-Worker's Assessment: 4, 2, 3, 4, 2, 5, 3 = 23; Average = 3.28

It was surprising in examining the differences between my own assessment and my co-worker's that the individual components varied a good amount, however the overall score was very close. One value that was significantly different was how my co-worker assessed my ability to lead by example while I was harder on myself. Also, my co-worker scored me lower on my ability to develop my staff's talents and ranked me higher in vision than I did.

In general, this exercise illustrated the significant room for improvement that exists to improve my leadership skills. Most of the scores from my own assessment as well as my co-worker ranked in the middle (e.g. 3's). Further efforts are necessary for me to become the leader that I want to be. In specific, I need to improve my vision and ability to provide innovate thinking in the work place. These values can be transformed into definitive action and behaviors. Vision can be achieved through developing with employees a specific, well-articulated strategy with clear cut small steps to reach it. Furthermore, it is important that I express decisiveness and optimism about the vision and its implementation. In regards to innovate thinking, I should attempt to embrace abstract thought, brain-storming with employees and ultimate thinking, which means keeping the team's focus on the goal while tackling small steps. These tactics will result in improve management skills, employee satisfaction and ultimately improved efficacy.