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Transformational leadership theory

Leadership with values, meaning and a higher purpose


Transformational Leadership theory has evolved from and contains elements of preceding leadership types, such as trait and behaviour theories, charismatic, situational and transactional leadership.

Transformational leadership theory is about leadership that creates positive change in the followers whereby they take care of each other's interests and act in the interests of the group as a whole.

In this leadership style, the leader enhances the motivation, moral and performance of his follower group.

James MacGregor Burns first brought the concept of transformational leadership to prominence in his book Leadership [1978].

Originally this was in the context of his researches into political leadership, but this term is now used in organisational psychology as well.

Macgregor drew the distinction between transactional leadership and transformational leadership.


Compare Transactional & Transformational Leadership



Transformational leadership theory transcends transactional leadership and rather than describing a set of specific behaviours, it outlines an ongoing process by which "leaders and followers raise one another to higher levels of morality and motivation" [Leadership, p20].

Transformational leadership is all about values and meaning, and a purpose that transcends short-term goals and focuses on higher order needs.



    “Essentially the leader’s task is consciousness-raising on a wide plane. The leader’s fundamental act is to induce people to be aware or conscious of what they feel - to feel their true needs so strongly, to define their values so meaningfully, that they can be moved to purposeful action.”

    Macgregor [Leadership, pp 43-44]




    There are four components of transformational leadership, which are:

    (1) Charisma or idealised influence - the degree to which the leader behaves in admirable ways and displays convictions and takes stands that cause followers to identify with the leader who has a clear set of values and acts as a role model for the followers.

    (2) Inspirational motivation - the degree to which the leader articulates a vision that is appeals to and inspires the followers with optimism about future goals, and offers meaning for thecurrent tasks in hand.

    (3) Intellectual stimulation - the degree to which the leader challenges assumptions, stimulates and encourages creativity in the followers - by providing a framework for followers to see how they connect [to the leader, the organisation, each other, and the goal] they can creatively overcome any obstacles in the way of the mission.

    (4) Personal and individual attention - the degree to which the leader attends to each individual follower's needs and acts as a mentor or coach and gives respect to and appreciation of the individual's contribution to the team. This fulfils and enhances each individual team members' need for self-fulfilment, and self-worth - and in so doing inspires followers to further achievement and growth.



Bernard M. Bass [1985], suggested a transformational leadership theory that added to Burn's original theory - the extent to which a leader is transformational, is measured:

(1) In terms of the leader's influence on the followers

(2) The leader success in seeking new ways for working, while he tries to identify new opportunities and assess threats






Further Resource


For a more detail and further resource check out Richard Cox's excellent site www.transformationalleadership.net

Here is an excellent report that Richard has made available: Transformational Leadership Theory Report



FREE Ebook Download + EZINE



    This 29 page document is a brief introduction to some of the key themes and key points that you need to consider in starting the change process.

    Contents include:

    # 5 Guiding principles to incremental and step change
    # Assessing the case for change
    # The single biggest issue re managing change
    # 8 key strategies for managing change
    # 4 key steps to incremental change
    # How to shape your step-change initiative
    # The 3 Keys to realising the benefits of step change

    For more see: Starting the change process

    Receive your FREE ebook download "Starting The Change Process" and for more on all this together with a timely reminder on related topics subscribe to your E-ZINE NOW.

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James MacGregor Burns - Leadership with a higher purpose

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