A leader’s overall style will influence the way they communicate with others. In this module, you learned about varying leadership styles, including transformational and transactional leadership styles. In this course, the journal will be used for reflection. This is a private conversation between you and your instructor, and you are encouraged to deeply explore the concepts presented.
Prompt
Write a reflective journal video about different styles of leadership and how a leader communicates to varied stakeholders. As an adaptive leader, your communication strategy or style may pivot depending on your audience. You are not required to use sources; however, you can emphasize and support your thinking with resources if you feel it is applicable. Specifically, you will address the following questions:
Comparison: How does transactional leadership differ from transformational leadership? Explain.
Communication: How do you think each leadership style would approach communication with various stakeholders?
Impact: What is the impact if a leader does not recognize the need to adjust their communication based off the audience’s needs?
Scene: A quiet, well-lit room with natural light. The camera focuses on the individual, dressed professionally, sitting at a desk with a notebook and pen.]
Narrator: “Leadership is a complex interplay of style, strategy, and communication. Today, I want to delve into the nuances of transactional and transformational leadership, and how communication styles can vary based on the audience.
Transactional Leadership is often characterized by a clear exchange of rewards for performance. It’s a more directive approach, focusing on tasks, goals, and maintaining the status quo. A transactional leader might communicate primarily through clear expectations, performance metrics, and feedback. They would likely use a direct and assertive style, emphasizing results and accountability.
Transformational Leadership, on the other hand, is more inspirational and empowering. These leaders focus on motivating employees, fostering a shared vision, and creating a positive organizational culture. Their communication style is often more collaborative, engaging, and visionary. They might use storytelling, metaphors, and emotional appeals to connect with their audience and inspire change.
The key to effective leadership lies in adaptability. A leader must recognize that different situations and audiences require different communication approaches. For example, a transactional style might be appropriate when managing a large team or implementing a new process, while a transformational approach could be more effective when inspiring innovation or building morale.
Failing to adjust communication style based on the audience can have significant consequences. A transactional approach with a highly motivated team might stifle creativity and innovation. Conversely, a transformational approach with a team that needs clear direction and structure could lead to confusion and inefficiency.
Effective leaders are those who can seamlessly shift between styles, tailoring their communication to meet the specific needs of their audience. By understanding the nuances of different leadership styles and adapting their communication accordingly, leaders can build stronger relationships, achieve better results, and create a more positive organizational culture.”