Although we’ve had leaders and leadership throughout the human history, people haven’t always been as focused on examining the differences in leadership.
The real boom in leadership theories started in the 20th century, when more focus began pouring in to solving the great mysteries of effective and good leadership.Leadership theories are often categorized based on what the theory believes to be the defining trait or characteristic of the leader or the framework he or she uses. While there are a number of theories, The purpose of this essay is to examine The main components of the Transactional Leadership, Transformational Leadership and Authentic Leadership approach. Then identify three strengths and three weaknesses of each of the approach for understanding leadership behaviour.Each of these categories has various leadership styles, which can slightly differ from each other, but nonetheless, belong to the core group.
Let’s examine the theories and the assumptions they make about leadership.Transactional theory focus on the power and influence of leadership and the different ways leaders can leverage these to achieve objectives. The basis for the theory is the examination of the transactions between the leader and the followers, focusing on understanding how to build a positive and effective relationship. Therefore, the theory is interested in understanding the reward and punishment systems and their use in aligning the needs of the organization with the needs of the subordinate.The transactional style has been popular and it can be efficient in creating meaningful relationships between the leader and the subordinates, it’s also attracted criticism.
The most common objection to the style is its assumption that humans operate only to maximize pleasure or reward. It can sometimes dismiss other motivational factors altogether and just assume financial gain is all subordinates seek.Meanwhile Transformational leadership theory as a more humane militaristic leadership than transactional theory. It believes in inspiring employees to work through the examples and a leader of great force of personality. The theory that people high growth through positive motivation than negative motivation. the leadership theory tends to strike a balance between short- and long-term objectives. another big benefit to the style comes from how it creates other leaders with transformational qualities.
Since individuals are using self-motivation and self-actualization as part of their work, they can use these talents to become transformational leaders themselves. While the Authentic leadership is in its infancy, which means the concept still lacks certain universal answers or theories to specific questions. As we will examine about the advantages and disadvantages of the approach, the lack of proper theory or model is sometimes criticized as the biggest flaw of the idea.authentic leadership as a leadership style that is consistent with a leaders’ personality and core values, and that is honest, ethical and practical. Authentic leadership refers to the type of leader who actually holds the beliefs she espouses. The leader’s authenticity presents itself in her actions. Her behavior reflects the ethics and values she promotes, such as transparency and fairness.Nonetheless, authentic leadership provides one idealistic view on what leadership can offer at its best.
Its focus on building genuine relationship and creating an environment based on trust is useful for most organizations. While there are still many questions left unanswered about leadership theories, and many possible truths to be drawn from there ideas, I have aimed in this essay to establish that at least three things are true: Transformational leadership is built around the idea of leading by example. It is about empowering people to achieve their full potential and work towards the concept of self-actualization.
From Burns to Bass, the theory has been built around the idea of challenging and changing the status quo and thriving towards greatness.While The transactional theories pay close attention to the motivations behind the actions. The transactional style has been popular and it can be efficient in creating meaningful relationships between the leader and the subordinates.
Moreover, If you want your employees to be loyal to you, be an authentic leader. Behave ethically, communicate openly and promote their interests, as well as your own, showing your followers that you view your business as a team.
