Leadership theories are frameworks or models that attempt to explain what makes a good leader and how
leadership effectiveness can be understood and developed. There are several prominent theories of leadership,
each offering a different perspective on what traits, behaviors, or situations contribute to effective leadership.
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Trait Theory:
Description: Trait theory suggests that certain innate characteristics make individuals better leaders.
Advantages: Provides a straightforward framework for identifying potential leaders based on observable traits.
Limitations: Ignores the role of situational factors and the possibility of developing leadership skills.
Example: Winston Churchill's leadership during World War II is often cited as an example, but trait theory alone
may not fully explain his effectiveness.
Qualities: Achievement drive Leadership motivation Honesty and integrity Self-confidence Cognitive ability
Knowledge of business Emotional maturity Others like charisma, creativity and flexibility
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Behavioural Theory:
Description: Focuses on learned behaviours and actions that contribute to effective leadership.
Advantages: Offers practical insights into behaviors that can be learned and developed to improve leadership
effectiveness.
Limitations: May oversimplify the complex nature of leadership by focusing solely on observable behaviors.
Example: Steve Jobs' leadership at Apple Inc., demonstrating how learned behaviors such as visionary thinking
can drive organizational success.
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Contingency Theory:
Description: Contingency theories suggest that the effectiveness of leadership depends on the specific
situation.
Advantages: Emphasizes the importance of context in understanding leadership effectiveness.
Limitations: Can be challenging to predict or prescribe specific leadership approaches due to the diversity of
situational factors.
Example: General George S. Patton's adaptive leadership style during World War II, which varied based on
battlefield conditions and troop morale.
Models to define contingency theory: Fiedler Model
Hershey & Blanchard’s situational model
Path-goal theory: A leader’s job is to provide follower’s with information, resources and
support, in order to achieve the goals.
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Transformational Leadership:
Description: Focuses on inspiring and motivating followers to achieve exceptional performance.
Advantages: Encourages personal growth, innovation, and organizational change.
Limitations: Requires a charismatic leader, which may not always be practical or sustainable.
Example: Nelson Mandela's leadership in South Africa, inspiring a nation towards reconciliation and
democracy.
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Transactional Leadership:
Description: Involves exchanges between leaders and followers, with rewards for good performance
and punishments for poor performance.
Advantages: Provides clear expectations and consequences, promoting accountability and
performance.
Limitations: May foster a transactional rather than a transformative relationship between leaders
and followers.
Example: Jack Welch's leadership at General Electric, utilizing performance metrics and incentives to
drive organizational success.
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Servant Leadership:
Description: Emphasizes serving the needs of others and empowering followers.
Advantages: Builds trust and loyalty, fosters collaboration, and promotes employee well-being.
Limitations: Requires a high level of emotional intelligence and may be challenging to implement in
hierarchical organizations.
Example: Mahatma Gandhi's leadership in India's independence movement, prioritizing the wellbeing of his followers over personal gain.
Difference Transactional and transform leadership :
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Transactional Leadership:
Focus: Task completion and adherence to standards through rewards and punishments.
Motivation: Contingent rewards and corrective actions.
Relationship: Formal and transactional with limited emphasis on personal development.
Style: Directive and controlling, ensuring compliance with established procedures.
Impact: Maintains stability and order within the organization.
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Transformational Leadership:
Focus: Inspiring and empowering followers to achieve exceptional performance and growth.
Motivation: Appeals to higher ideals and values, fostering enthusiasm and commitment.
Relationship: Trusting, empowering, and focused on personal development.
Style: Inspirational and visionary, encouraging innovation and collaboration.
Impact: Promotes a dynamic and adaptive organizational culture focused on continuous
improvement.
Leadership theories evolution:
Charismatic and transformation leadership difference
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Charismatic Leadership:
Focus: Centers on the personality and charm of the leader.
Influence: Inspires followers through personal magnetism and a compelling vision.
Goal: Inspire followers to rally around the leader's vision and goals.
Example: Steve Jobs, Martin Luther King Jr.
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Transformational Leadership:
Focus: Centers on inspiring and motivating followers to achieve exceptional performance.
Influence: Empowers followers through a compelling vision, support, and encouragement.
Goal: Transform individuals and organizations by fostering innovation and positive change.
Example: Nelson Mandela, Oprah Winfrey.