Elon Musk. Richard Branson. Nelson Mandela. Henry Ford.
Whether they are all universally admired or not, the above names are all rightly viewed as transformational leaders. A transformational leader is defined as someone that inspires fundamental changes in individuals and in the systems they work within. They inspire their teams to go beyond self interest and to reach & achieve improbable goals.
They facilitate collaboration to pinpoint problems, identify improvement opportunities and coach teams to develop their own strategies. They exemplifies moral standards within the company and encourages the same of others. A transformational leader continually reminds their team of a future that's possible.
How Can You Adopt a Transformational Leadership Style?
Transformational leaders care about their team, they have a vision and they know how to achieve it.
You can adopt similar traits in your workplace to lead your team to success and this begins with your approach. Although transformational leadership doesn’t come naturally to everyone, a good place to start is with the following 5 steps.
1. Gather a team of like-minded people.
In order for your vision to be met, it’s important that everyone is aligned and each individual shares the same ambition. As Jim Collins states in his book “From Good To Great” start by getting the right people on the bus.
2. Address the problem(s).
Take the problems you’re experiencing and think up a way to solve them. Transformational leaders are able to admit issues and seek out ways to solve them.
3. Have a problem-solving session with your team.
Share your vision with your team and brainstorm ideas with everyone about how problems can be solved. Take the time to consider each team member’s ideas and get them on paper. Evaluate each potential solution by listing its pros and cons, and costs and benefits. Decide together which solution is the most viable.
4. Make a plan.
Write down what you need to execute your chosen solution, taking note of costs, time and tools needed. Every task should be actionable and measurable, so break down large tasks into smaller ones if necessary. You now have your list of shared goals.
5. Encourage your team.
This isn’t the time to try and achieve your vision alone. Talk to your team and work with them as you all progress. Take into consideration their new ideas and concerns, and use your leadership position to foster their growth and independence.
How Can Transformational Leaders Impact Those Around Them?
Transformational leaders know how to use their position for good. By giving their whole selves to their team, they are able to expand the thinking of the people around them and encourage them to believe in their own abilities.
Truly transformative leaders represent their entire teams with a disregard for titles. Their passion for the goal encourages others and compels them to act autonomously for the benefit of the company.
By adopting this style of leadership, you make others around you more powerful. In the words of Richard Branson,
“Train people well enough so that they can leave, but treat them well enough so they don’t want to.”
To learn more about implementing new ways of thinking and leading at your organisation, start a conversation with the team at OE Partners. You can leave a message in the form below and we’ll get back to you to arrange a consultation.
