There are many different theories behind leadership, as well as many different kinds of leadership styles. These theories have changed over the years, and some are viewed as being better or more effective than others. One of the most popular modern day theories regarding leadership is that of transformational leadership. Transformational leadership is different from the traditional leadership theory, but it is perhaps one of the most effective ones to date.

The Thought Behind The Theory

Bass identified transformational leadership, which is why the theory is now known as Bass Transformational Leadership Theory. According to Bass, there are three ways in which leaders motivate followers, which are by increasing their awareness of task importance and value, by activating their higher-order needs and by encouraging them to focus first on organizational and team goals as opposed to their own interests.

Causing A Transformation

Bass theory sounds good, but how does a leader actually go about causing such a change in their followers? Bass identified seven components of transformational leadership that allows the theory to become a reality. The first four of these components are related to charisma. Charisma is seen is being important in a transformational leader. The four charismatic components are inspirational motivation, individualized consideration, idealized influence and intellectual stimulation.

The final three components of transformational leadership are moral. These are the moral character of the leader, the values that can be found in the leaders vision and program, as well as the morality of the processes and action of the leaders group.

The Dynamic Differences

The major differences between transformational leadership and other forms of leadership is that transformational leadership focuses mainly on the goals and aspirations of the group itself. Other forms of leadership, known as pseudo-transformational, tend to focus on opposing groups in order to unite the group and create a stronger sense of unity.

If you work for a transformational leader, the major difference you will notice is the level of excitement and passion that they themselves possess and that they inspire in all of their followers. This is a characteristic that is not unique in transformational leadership, but that is most common in this area.

Inspired Devotion

A leader requires only two things including a goal and people to help him or her reach that goal. If you are passionate about the first and have the ability to make others feel the same way, then the second will not take long to follow.

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