Transformational leadership | NURSING | Alabama State University

Transformational leadership | NURSING | Alabama State University

Transformational leadership theory focuses on inspiring and motivating employees by appealing to their individual values, beliefs, and needs. Strengths of this style include the ability to foster creativity and collaboration among teams as well as increased satisfaction for both leaders and followers. Additionally, transformational leaders are more likely to take into account the opinions of those they lead which can increase job satisfaction and respect from subordinates. Weaknesses however include problems with overbearing or micromanaging behaviors as well as a potential lack of structure if expectations are not clearly defined.

Leader-Member Exchange (LMX) theory states that relationships between managers and staff members exist on different levels depending upon how much trust exists between them. This creates an “in” group where certain individuals receive preferential treatment while others do not which can lead to feelings of unfairness or resentment among team members if left unchecked. Strengths include creating strong bonds between leader-follower pairs that promote loyalty while weaknesses include creating factions within organizations based on differences in status or access to resources.