There are some popular concepts in the literature on \"leadership\" being publis
ID: 461007 • Letter: T
Question
There are some popular concepts in the literature on "leadership" being published and discussed currently. Your text talks about two of those different concepts of leadership: 1) Charismatic Leadership and 2) Transformational Leadership (pp. 545-546). Some argue that transformational leaders must also be charismatic. Others say transformational leaders can be just as effective even if they are not charismatic. Where do you come down? Is charisma a necessary ingredient for being an effective transformational leader? Can you think of any well known examples of either?
Explanation / Answer
I believe that transformational leaders require a bit of charisma and as such charisma is a necessary ingredient for an effective transformational leader. This is because a transformational leader uses his/her charisma to gain the trust as well as the respect of the stakeholders. The process of transformation requires a common vision that should run through the organization. Charisma will help the leader not only to underline the common vision but also to develop a sense of mission that is required for the transformation.
Example of a transformational leader who used his charisma as well is Nelson Mandela. Mr. Mandela had transformed his country's political arena. He used his charisma to set a vision for his countrymen. His charisma helped him share his vision helped him to address the self actualization needs of the citizens of his country.