One key insight is that transformational leadership is positively associated with employee job satisfaction, commitment, and performance. According to Avolio, Walumbwa, and Weber (2009), transformational leaders inspire and motivate their followers by providing them with a vision, challenging them to go beyond their self-interests, and empowering them to achieve their goals. This type of leadership creates a sense of belonging, enthusiasm, and ownership among employees, which, in turn, leads to higher levels of job satisfaction, organizational commitment, and performance.
Another key insight is that effective communication is a critical leadership skill that enhances team performance and reduces errors and conflicts. As noted by Henneman, Gawlinski, and Blank (2012), effective communication involves active listening, clear and concise messaging, providing feedback, and responding to feedback. Leaders who master these communication skills create an environment of trust, transparency, and collaboration, which, in turn, fosters teamwork, shared decision-making, and innovation.
An example of a leader who exhibited these behaviors and skills is Howard Schultz, the former CEO of Starbucks. Schultz was known for his visionary leadership style, which included inspiring employees to provide high-quality customer service, promoting sustainability, and fostering a sense of community among customers and employees. Schultz also had strong communication skills, which he used to build relationships with employees and customers, and to articulate his vision and strategy for the company. His leadership style and communication skills contributed to the success of Starbucks, which became one of the most successful and admired companies in the world.
In conclusion, effective leadership behaviors and skills, such as transformational leadership and effective communication, have a significant impact on the workplace, including employee job satisfaction, commitment, and performance, and team performance and innovation. Leaders who exhibit these behaviors and skills create a positive work environment that fosters collaboration, creativity, and excellence.