The Power of Vision: Leading with Transformational Leadership

Businesses are trying to deal with today’s era where old ways of doing business are irrelevant and the leadership style needs to change. Just like what John C. Maxwell, an American leadership expert, speaker, author, said, "A leader is a person who has a vision, a drive, and a commitment to achieve that vision, and the skills to make it happen".

As organizations continue to embrace digital transformation, the role of a leader is changing. While visionary leadership is said to be ideal, vision alone is meaningless. This is why “transformational leadership” is a better fit in this digital transformation era.

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Transformational Leadership Defined: Turning Vision into Reality

There are many types of leaderships that can be implemented in an organization, such as ambidextrous leadership, agile leadership, and many more. However, transformational leadership is said to be suitable in directing people towards the shared vision. Transformational leadership is defined as leaders who encourage, inspire, and motivate the employees to innovate and create changes by sharing their vision. They understand that for change to occur, everyone must work toward the same objective. Thus, they try to communicate the vision to their people gradually.

By focusing on the human potential for greatness, transformational leaders aim to bring about positive change not only within organizations but also within individuals, cultivating an atmosphere where innovation and progress are not just goals, but the natural outcomes of a motivated and empowered workforce.

Transformational Leadership: The Four I's

The four "I's" of a Transformational Leader are a concept often associated with transformational leadership. These "I's" represent key characteristics and behaviors exhibited by effective transformational leaders:

1.  Idealized Influence

Transformational leaders can serve as a role model and gain the trust, respect, and admiration of their followers. Transformational leaders lead by example and demonstrate high ethical standards. They instill a sense of purpose and vision that inspires others to follow.

2.  Inspirational Motivation

Transformational leaders inspire and motivate their people by communicating a clear and appealing vision that fosters enthusiasm and commitment. These leaders encourage creativity and innovation, helping their people see the significance of their work.

3.  Individualized Consideration

Transformational leaders are attentive to the individual needs and concerns of their followers. By providing support, coaching, and mentoring, transformational leaders create an environment where individuals can develop and reach their full potential.

4.  Intellectual Stimulation

Transformational leaders encourage creativity and critical thinking among their people. They challenge the status quo, stimulate new ideas, and promote a culture of continuous learning by fostering an environment that values intellectual growth and curiosity.

Become a transformational leader! How?

4 Steps to Transformational Leadership

1.  Create an Inspiring Vision

People need a strong motivation to follow your steps, so you must share an inspiring vision. Start with the company's mission and vision, and explore the ways in which your team can contribute directly to it.

2.  Motivate People to Acknowledge and Deliver the Vision

Motivate your people by explaining where and why you plan to lead them. Then, discuss your vision frequently and link it to their tasks and goals to give context and show them how they can contribute.

3.  Manage the Delivery of the Vision

Transformational leadership requires effective communication. Ensure that everyone understands their responsibilities. Provide regular feedback as well to evaluate their performance.

4.  Build a Strong, Trust-Based Relationship

Put your people first. Meet your people individually to learn about their needs and assist them in achieving their goals. Being open and honest with others is also another way to gain their trust.

In conclusion, transformational leadership plays a critical role as it determines the ultimate success of the organization. Through familiarizing themselves with the transformational leadership style and integrating the four I’s, organizations will be able to realize their vision successfully.

For professionals aiming to lead effectively in the digital transformation era, enhance your capabilities with Agile Leadership training programs from Multimatics.

Resources

MindTools. (n.d.). Transformational Leadership. https://www.mindtools.com/alj9lad/transformational-leadership

Telloian, C. (2022). What is transformational leadership? Psych Central. https://psychcentral.com/health/transformational-leadership

Ugochukwu, C. (2023). Transformational Leadership style: How to Inspire and Motivate. Simply Psychology. https://www.simplypsychology.org/what-is-transformational-leadership.html