Leadership

George Washington crossing the Delaware River.

Leadership is the skill of guiding the efforts of others in the performance of some tasks in order to achieve a goal.

A leader may have higher skills than his subordinates , although it is not essential. He directs activities through discipline and encouragement and displays the values expected. Where practicable he will explain why some action is needed rather than simply use his authority to demand compliance.

• "... leadership is communicating to people their worth and potential so clearly that they come to see it in themselves." - Stephen R. Covey

Transformational leadership

See also: Transformational leadership theory and Teamwork skills and Collaboration skills

Transformational leadership is defined as a leadership approach that causes change in individuals and social systems. In its ideal form, it creates valuable and positive change in the followers with the end goal of developing followers into leaders."

Kendra Cherry, MSEd indicates:

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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 member of the group succeed. Transformational leaders take control of situations by conveying a clear vision of the group's goals. These leaders have a marked passion for the work and an ability to make the rest of the group feel recharged and energized. Transformational leaders focus on helping members of the group support one another and provide them with the support, guidance, and inspiration they need to work hard, perform well, and stay loyal to the group. The primary goals of transformational leadership are to inspire growth, promote loyalty, and instill confidence in group members... Bass also suggested that there were four different components of transformational leadership. The four main elements of transformational leadership are: 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 that they can 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.

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See also

• General
• Atheism and leadership
• Achievement orientation
• Achievement related articles
• Collaboration skills
• Teamwork skills
• Conflict resolution

External links

• Concepts of Leadership