A recent study by research groups Barna and Leadercast found that only 1 in every five workers thinks their boss is a good leader. A massive 40% of workers think their boss is bad, and the remaining 40% think they have an average boss at best. Complaints that are voiced most commonly about leadership include a lack of vision and a leadership style that is over-controlling and manipulative. A third of workers say that poor leadership is the main factor of stress at work.
Leadership theories and styles vary widely, and understanding different leadership theories can help organizations improve their leadership approaches. Poor leadership leads directly to a disgruntled workforce, decreasing productivity, and higher costs as staff turnover skyrockets. When considering business strategy, leadership theories and styles should be high on the list of things that an organization must get right. But how do these shape up in your organization today, and how would your leaders and employees benefit from a different approach?
Understanding Leadership Theory
Leadership theory is a concept that has been studied extensively over the years. It refers to the various schools of thought that attempt to explain how and why certain individuals become leaders. These theories emphasize the traits and behaviors that individuals can adopt to boost their own leadership abilities. Understanding leadership theory is essential for developing leadership skills and improving leadership effectiveness.
There are several major leadership theories, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Some of the most popular leadership theories include the Great Man Theory, Trait Theory, Behavioral Leadership Theory, Contingency Theory, and Transformational Leadership. Each of these theories provides a unique perspective on leadership and can be applied in different contexts.
Effective leadership is critical for achieving success in various fields, including business, politics, and community development. Leaders who understand and apply leadership theory are better equipped to inspire and motivate others, make informed decisions, and develop strategies that drive results.
The natural leader: Trait Theory
The first theory is that leaders are born and not made. This leadership theory has its foundations in history, when aristocracy were the natural leaders of people. Formal leadership theories have emerged to systematically categorize and understand the characteristics and behaviors of effective leaders. Often these led by either fear or motivational style, but certainly because of the greater education and knowledge of the leader.
There may be some truth in the fact that natural leaders appear when the chips are down, but natural leaders from ancient religious figures to Churchill, Eisenhower, and JFK all benefited from a higher level of understanding and access to information than those they led.
Leadership by participation: Leadership Style
Those who lead by participation involve others in the process of decision making. This will include peers, subordinates, superiors, and stakeholders. Highest levels of participation occur when all decisions are made by the team. However, the leader may first sell his or her ideas to team members or describe objectives and encourage the discovery of solutions.
This approach focuses on how leaders behave in collaborative settings, encouraging participation and shared decision-making. This approach helps the leader to empower his or her people, embedding commitment and encouraging a more collaborative workplace.
Leadership by reward/punishment
Among theories and styles of leadership, this is perhaps one of the most controversial. The premise is that people are motivated to perform either by reward for good performance or punishment for bad. This is most akin to authoritative style leadership, in which people understand the chain of command and react to orders handed to them. This transactional leadership style gives the manager full control, and is most commonly portrayed by managers rather than leaders.
Motivational Leadership: Transformational Leadership
Leadership by motivation, also called transformational leadership, is seen when the leader inspires people to follow. This requires vision and passion, with the leader’s own enthusiasm and energy reflected by that of his or her people. This type of leader cares about the people for whom he or she has responsibility, and is a constant advocate of the future vision. He or she is likely to be a good negotiator and benefit from high emotional intelligence.
Motivational leadership requires the leader to be highly visible, empathetic, committed, and visionary. Motivational leadership is often linked to leadership success, as it inspires and energizes teams to achieve their goals. Their concerns are balanced between the wellbeing of their people and the progress of the project. However, motivational leaders thrive on challenge and so, for this type of leader, frustration will set in when working at an organization that wishes to remain unchanged.
Contingency leadership: Contingency Leadership Theory
The last of these five leadership theories and styles is one of the most difficult to execute effectively. Contingency theories highlight the importance of adapting leadership styles to the specific needs of the situation, considering factors such as team abilities, organizational needs, and project demands. The leader takes into consideration the abilities of his or her people, the needs of the organization, the demands of the project, and his or her own leadership capabilities. For example, projects that are severely time constricted may require a more controlling approach whereas projects of a more technical nature may require a more participative style.
Applying Leadership Theories in the Workplace
Leadership theories can be applied in various ways in the workplace. One of the most effective ways to apply leadership theory is to identify the leadership style that best fits the situation. For example, a leader may use a transactional leadership style in a mature organization with clearly defined structure and goals, but switch to a transformational leadership style in a situation where the organization needs to undergo significant change.
Another way to apply leadership theory is to develop leadership skills through training and development programs. These programs can help leaders learn new skills and behavirs that are essential for effective leadership. For example, a leader may participate in a training program that focuses on developing emotional intelligence, communication skills, and strategic thinking.
Leadership theories can also be applied in team management. For example, a leader may use a contingency leadership theory to assess the needs of the team and adjust their leadership style accordingly. This can help to improve team performance, motivation, and job satisfaction.
Leadership Development and Training
Leadership development and training are critical for improving leadership effectiveness. There are several ways to develop leadership skills, including formal training programs, mentoring, coaching, and self-directed learning.
Formal training programs can provide leaders with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed. These programs can cover topics such as leadership theory, communication skills, strategic thinking, and emotional intelligence.
Mentoring and coaching can also be effective ways to develop leadership skills. A mentor or coach can provide guidance, support, and feedback to help leaders develop their skills and achieve their goals.
Self-directed learning is another way to develop leadership skills. Leaders can read books, articles, and online resources to learn new skills and stay up-to-date with the latest leadership trends and best practices.
Overall, leadership development and training are essential for improving leadership effectiveness and achieving success in various fields. By applying leadership theory and developing leadership skills, leaders can inspire and motivate others, make informed decisions, and drive results.
Contact Primeast today, and we’ll help your leaders realize their true potential by applying appropriate leadership theories and styles.
