Transformational Leadership vs. Situational Leadership

by Neil Kokemuller
Situational leaders can generally fit into more types of work environments.

Situational leaders can generally fit into more types of work environments. Images

Transformational leadership and situational leadership are both effective approaches to organizational leadership depending on the work environment and situation. Transformational leaders typically lead based on personal traits of vision and inspiration. Situational leaders rely on intuition and analysis of a given situation to lead in a way that makes sense based on that particular situation.

Transformational Leadership Basics

A transformation in an organization is a virtual makeover. It means the company is going through a change in philosophy or is moving in a new direction. Transformation leaders are often brought in specifically to head an operation when it is in flux or embarking on significant changes. Transformational leaders are known for having strong vision and a passion for accomplishing great things, according to the website

Transformational Leadership Details

Vision is critical for transformational leadership because employees are more comfortable when they understand the vision and direction of the company going forward. Passion helps the transformational leader sell his vision to the company and its employees. This is important, especially in companies where morale is low and the company is making a major change in direction. Transformational leaders are often known for their personal charisma, which enables them to inspire and motivate workers to change their roles and performs in line with the new organizational philosophy.

Situational Leadership Basics

Situational leadership has emerged as a prominent approach to organizational leadership in the early 21st century. Whereas other leadership styles are based on the traits and approaches of the leader, situational leadership is based on the notion that the leader adapts to each situation he faces. refers to transformational leadership as a single preferred style, while situational leadership means applying different leadership skills to the motivation and capabilities of the employee in a situation.

Situational Leadership Details

A number of factors are related to situational leadership, including external relationships, resources, group management and organizational culture. A transformational leader would apply his approach regardless of organizational culture. A situational leader recognizes a culture that places strong importance on teamwork and cooperation. In this instance, the situational leader would base his communication with a particular employee on how well he is fitting into that team-oriented culture. also points out that situational leaders put special emphasis on retaining top employees and make individual development a priority for organizational success.

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