A Motivating Transformational Leader
“Transformational leadership involves an exceptional form of influence that moves followers to accomplish more than what is usually expected of them” (Northouse, 2013). When I read the chapter on Transformational Leadership, the first leader that came to mind as an was John F. Kennedy. He is an excellent example of a Transformational Leader.
A great Transformational leader has vision and motivates others through change. In Kennedy’s famous inaugural speech and one of the most famous quotes ever is a perfect example of vision and motivation. He enthusiastically inspires the American public when he says, “ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country” he is advocating for changed (Kennedy, 1961). Getting the public involved in making things better, making them responsible to be involved to make things better is one of his ways of motivation. He inspires those to not look at the past but to look and concentrate on changing the future for the better.
Then I look at my previous boss, someone I worked with for thirteen years, prior to going back to school and luckily enough to be a Pennsylvania State Graduate himself. In fact might be the reason I chose to get my degree from Penn State. He is the true, honest, Transformational leader; however I can’t explain even after taking these courses; the exact way he motivates me to do better than I ever thought I could do.
He is someone who has grown himself, from Sr. Product Manager when I met him to now the Chief Marketing Officer, all with the use of his unique staff motivation, clear vision and integrity. I just hope that one day I get the opportunity to work with him again in the future.
Northouse, P. G. (2013). Leadership: Theory and Practice. Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE Publications Inc.
KEN SCHELL says
That is a fantastic story. Some personalities have that knack for sparking something in others and it sounds like this gentleman had it.
My employer is in the process of developing creer paths that allow employees to move through the ranks in the manner you referenced. Unbelievably, it is not something that leadership has been fond of in the past. The thought is that employees that are developed from within are a part of the culture of the organization. My employer is now beginning to think that this may not be such a big problem. Funny how things are viewed in an organization.
Best of luck to you in your effort to advance.