Define Transformational Leadership and Its Components,and Describe How It Works

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The Answer is Transformational leaders transform followers to pursue organizational goals over self-interests.They do this by using leader behaviors (i.e.,inspirational motivation,idealized influence,individualized consideration,and intellectual stimulation)that appeal to followers' self-concepts-namely,their values,motives,and personal identity.Inspirational motivation,which includes the use of charisma,involves establishing an attractive vision of the future,the use of emotional arguments,and exhibition of optimism and enthusiasm.The focus of idealized influence is to instill pride,respect,and trust within employees.Individual consideration entails behaviors associated with providing support,encouragement,empowerment,and coaching to employees.Intellectual stimulation involves behaviors that encourage employees to question the status quo and to seek innovation and creative solutions to organizational problems.
Figure 13.5 shows on the left-hand side that transformational leader behavior is first influenced by both individual and organizational characteristics. The third column from the left, further shows that the use of transformational leadership creates positive effects on followers and work groups. In turn, these positive effects are expected to lead to positive outcomes. Research supports these proposed linkages.

Support for transformation leadership underscores five important managerial implications. (1) The establishment of a positive vision of the future-inspirational motivation-should be considered a first step at applying transformational leadership. (2) The best leaders are not just transformational. (3) Transformational leadership affects outcomes at the individual, group, and organizational levels. (4) Transformational leadership works virtually. (5) Transformational leaders can be ethical or unethical.

Define Transformational Leadership and Its Components,and Describe How It Works

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