5 Perspectives of Leadership That Every Manager Must Know
As a manager, one of the most critical skills to possess is the ability to lead effectively. While each leader brings their unique style of leadership to the table, certain aspects of leadership remain consistent. Here are five perspectives of leadership that every manager must know to excel:
Perspective 1: Visionary Leadership
A clear vision is what separates a leader from a manager. The ability to see beyond the daily grind and plan for the future is what makes a true visionary leader. To bring their vision to fruition, a visionary leader inspires their team to work towards a shared goal. One of the best examples of a visionary leader is the late Steve Jobs, who had a vision for Apple’s future and worked tirelessly to bring it to life.
Perspective 2: Servant Leadership
The idea behind servant leadership is simple; effective leaders serve their team. This perspective of leadership prioritizes the needs of employees, which, in turn, leads to increased job satisfaction, commitment, and productivity. The servant leadership approach creates a culture of trust, respect, and empathy. A notable example of a servant leader is Herb Kelleher, who famously led Southwest Airlines by prioritizing the needs of his employees.
Perspective 3: Transformational Leadership
Transformational leaders drive change by inspiring their team to take risks and think outside the box. They lead by example, emphasizing the importance of personal growth and development. This perspective of leadership creates a workforce that is passionate about their work and willing to go above and beyond the call of duty. A famous transformational leader is Richard Branson, who has built a global business empire through his unique leadership style.
Perspective 4: Authentic Leadership
Authentic leadership focuses on personal values and beliefs. Leaders who embody this approach are open, honest, and transparent in their interactions. Authentic leadership fosters a culture of honesty and openness, where employees feel safe to share their ideas and feedback. Bill George, the former CEO of Medtronic, is an excellent example of an authentic leader who prioritizes transparency and honesty in his interactions with his employees.
Perspective 5: Situational Leadership
Situational leadership is all about adapting to the needs of the situation. A situational leader has a flexible leadership style that can change based on the situation they are facing. This perspective of leadership requires an understanding of the team’s strengths and weaknesses, as well as the ability to adjust leadership style accordingly. A notable example of a situational leader is Anne Mulcahy, who successfully led Xerox through an economic downturn by adjusting her leadership style to match the needs of the situation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, effective leadership is critical to the success of any organization. While each leader brings their unique perspective to the table, understanding the essential perspectives outlined above can help every manager enhance their leadership skills. By adopting aspects of these five perspectives, managers can create a positive, productive work environment, drive change, and achieve success.
