Classical vs. Contemporary Leadership styles

Leadership styles

Introduction

In this paper, we would be discussing the classical verses contemporary leadership styles. Leadership is understood as a process or activity in which people are mobilized to create positive change. Note that the definition identifies leadership as a process or activity in which many people can partake (not a position or skill), and it involves creating change (not maintaining the status quo). So why should we focus on and care about leadership? On an individual or personal level, developing leadership capacity is important because it helps to be more effective person and group member, one who is able to think innovatively and initiate changes.

Contemporary leadership styles

The formation of large business enterprises and diversified business activities, the need, for management discipline has evolved to organize, control and maintain the functions of organization through the development of processes and procedures. While Leadership deals with change. The current business environment is getting increasingly competitive and uncertain due to changing technologies, globalization, labour shortages and new market structure. Consequently the organizations have constantly change and improved themselves. These shifts from the regular work practices need the vision of a leader (Schyns, Schilling, 2011).

Transformational leadership

Transformational leadership is centered on doing the right thing. Transformational leaders tend to encourage members to prioritize their goals and values. The team members are motivated to go beyond what is expected and proceeds for the entire group. Transformational leaders also implore input and feedback pertaining to the development of the goals from its members. It requires more time to develop goals and shifts the accountability process to everyone involved, which redefines their roles. Instead of delegating directives, transformational leaders brainstorm with their members. These individuals become more empowered as professionals in the decision making process and collaborate routinely to undergird the vision and the mission of the organization. Bryman (2004) confirmed that transformational leaders must be able to define and articulate a vision for their organization and members must accept the credibility of the leader. Goal attainment is essential for effective leadership (Van Eeden, van Deventer, 2008).

Transactional Leadership

The base of transactional leadership is a transaction or exchange process between leaders and followers. The transactional leader recognizes the needs and desires of the followers, and then explains clearly as you can meet those needs and desires, in exchange for meeting the objectives set p to perform certain tasks. Therefore, fans are rewarded for their job performance and leading benefits because they fulfill the tasks. Transactional leaders focus on the present and are very good at making the organization run smoothly and efficiently. They are excellent in the traditional management functions such as planning and budgeting, and mainly focus on the impersonal aspects of work performance. Transactional leadership can be very effective. Leaders should explain clearly what they expect from the followers. This helps in increasing the confidence they have in them. Moreover, the fact of meeting the needs of subordinates can improve productivity and mood. However, as transactional leadership involves a commitment to "follow the rules," ...