What Transformational Leaders Do Differently

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What characterizes a transformational leader? As a motivational speaker and executive coach, this is a question I field time and time again. One of the simplest ways to think about it is this: Rather than merely managing employees, a transformational leader inspires them to excel, to innovate, and to succeed.

This is no small distinction, and it stands to reason that there are certain things transformational leaders handle differently than their peers. Today, I want to highlight just a few of the identifying habits of transformational leaders. Consider how many of these characterize your own leadership style!

The Habits of Transformational Leaders

Transformational leaders listen. This is crucial. A lot of people see leadership as a way to grab the megaphone and make their voice heard—but actually, listening to the feedback of others is a key part of it. A transformational leader will make a habit of courting insights from the other team members; considering these insights seriously; and making sure all team members feel like their voices are being heard.

Transformational leaders act. Notice that I didn’t say transformational leaders are rash, or hasty, or fly off the handle, or make decisions based on too little information. At the end of the day, though, transformational leaders know that every meeting needs to point them toward an action step, and that the decisions they make should be made confidently.

Transformational leaders share vision. One of the hallmarks of transformational leaders is that they not only have a good sense of the big picture, but they help team members to see themselves within that vision. Know what your mission is, and be ready to show your employees how their work fits into that vision.

Transformational leaders admit when something’s not working. When faced with a project that’s just not coming together, transformational leaders are prepared to acknowledge their errors and move on to the next thing.

Transformational leaders are always learning. Investment in ongoing education and industry awareness is a key habit of the transformational leader.

What Kind of Leader Are You?

To conclude, I’d just ask the question: Do you consider yourself to be a transformational leader? If not, it’s never too late to become one. Give me a call to ask about executive coaching, and transform your own leadership style—starting today.

Source: B2C