What kind of leader are you?
Clergy often point to servant leadership as the preferred approach to leadership. As followers of Jesus, leading with a servant’s heart is required for the job. But given the challenges that many congregations face today, clergy should also consider what it means to be transformational leaders.
According to Peter Northouse, transformational leadership is a “process that changes and transforms people.” This process is holistic in that it addresses our long-term goals and organizational standards as well as our emotions and personal values.
Four characteristics are involved in the practice of transformational leadership: idealized influence, inspirational motivation, intellectual stimulation and individualized consideration.
Idealized influence has to do with how a leader understands the group’s emotions and sets a personal example, which earns respect and garners trust. Inspirational motivation involves setting lofty expectations that motivate the team; it’s tempting to lower expectations to win support, but transformational leaders aim high. Intellectual stimulation promotes innovation and creativity. Leaders must be willing to try new approaches and encourage the group to do the same. Finally, through individualized consideration, a leader takes the time to create a supportive climate in which people know that their individual needs are heard.
Transformational leaders give space for others to participate, and they support the group by encouraging hearts and minds through rituals of celebration. To become transformational leaders, we start by setting an example of the vision we hope to achieve — but we must first be transformed by the Spirit of Christ. What will you do today to make room for transformation in the organization you serve?
