A transformational leader can be defined as how a person who can move the organization and the people working for the organization towards a greater good. Transformational leaders have the ability to shape their power and influence. The influence enables followers to complete more than the usual expectations, an above and beyond mentality (Northhouse 2016). The power is given to the followers where they can be motivated to maximize their conditions while feeling important to the organization on all levels.
There are a series of factors that must be in place for transformational leadership to occur. Peter Northouse list them as Idealized influence, Inspirational motivation, Intellectual stimulation, and Individualized consideration. Idealized influence can be tied to an emotional level where leaders can use their power as role models and followers strongly look up to them and want to be that person (Northhouse 2016). The level builds on a trust factor and people in all levels of the organization need to be able to trust their leader. A parallel to trust is having integrity. If integrity does not exist, then the trust of building a relationship will not exist (Northhouse 2016).
Inspirational motivation developed by leaders influences their follower to see the vision moving the organization forward. A leader needs to properly inspire the team through “symbols and emotional appeals” where they are inspired to achieve more than expected than they were thought capable (Northouse 2016). This level of inspiration that a leader can promote, will give the team a positive reinforcement where they are able to achieve even greater things.
Influencing teams using intellectual stimulation unlocks the team’s creativity to be innovative and to take on challenges. Challenges can be certain beliefs or values concerning the leader’s characteristics as well as the organizations ultimate goals (Northouse 2016). An individual with creative power influence can think strategically and show creativity during tasks and organizational issues that could take place. This allows followers to think on using their own strengthens and their ability to create and make decisions that will influence the team and organization. This leads toward the uncharted waters of developing new and innovative ideas.
Lastly, there is a need to listen closely to what the individuals of a team needs. Individualized consideration provides an atmosphere that is supportive through proper time in listening to people’s needs and wants (Northouse 2016). When a leader can understand the needs of the followers, this can break down barriers and will allow the leader to coach the individual to perform at a higher level.
Relating all of the factors, originates from the use of power and influence a leader can use to transform a team and the organization to the next level. This creates a culture balance of trust, integrity, and communication where the needs of the followers are met and their skills are challenged to perform better than they thought they could.
Reference:
Northouse, P. G. (2016). Leadership: Theory and Practice (7th ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications, Inc.