Exploring Transformational Leadership- Principles and Application in Professional Settings
The selected contemporary leadership theory is transformational leadership theory. The theory is characterized by the core principles of inspiration motivation, idealistic influence, intellectual stimulation, and individualized consideration (Den Hartog, 2019). The element of inspirational motivation creates a vision for the organization that inspires and motivates others within the organization toward achieving the goals associated with the vision. Idealistic influence and intellectual stimulation focus on the leader employing various strategies to connect and influence the followers and encouraging the followers to be innovative and creative in resolving problems, respectively. On the other hand, individualized consideration includes the leader identifying and understanding the needs of every team member and providing targeted support to meet the development needs of the individual. The central concept that can be construed from the elements of the transformational leadership theory is that the leader works with the followers in a way that balances self-interests and organizational interests by creating a vision that influences and promotes behaviors that align with organizational and personal goals (Den Hartog, 2019).
The core principles of the transformational leadership theory can be translated into a leadership approach within a professional setting by supporting staff motivation and inspiration. This is because the core principles can guide the leader to create a vision that resonates with everyone in the organization and effectively communicate it the vision. The core principles such as inspirational motivation, idealistic influence, and intellectual stimulation can guide the leader to communicate their vision in a way that encourages the followers to be interested in their vision, be motivated to be creative and innovative in a way that they can efficiently achieve the goals communicated in the vision.
Comparing and Contrasting the Transformational Leadership Theory with Transactional Leadership
Comparatively, the transformational leadership theory and the transactional leadership model tend to follow a structured approach to leadership with a focus on specific outcomes. Both also tend to place much emphasis on the importance and role of the employee in achieving organizational goals. However, the leadership theories differ in that transformational leadership focuses on inspiring and motivating, while transactional leadership focuses on rewards and punishment. The transformational leader is also focused on establishing trustful relationships to achieve a shared vision while the transactional leader focuses on objectives, rewarding achieved objectives, and punishing failures.
Transformational Leadership Theory Scenario
A scenario in which the principles of the transformational leadership theory could offer a distinct advantage or improvement over conventional leadership approaches, particularly in guiding the Arizona Department of Corrections through change is in overcoming the current resistance to adopt AI-powered EHRs as an upgrade on the current medical records system. The Arizona Department of Corrections has been using an old medical records system to manage the medical records of the incarcerated and the staff. However, the current system has many shortcomings, including the inability to analyze data to predict health patterns and manage the spread of infections. AI-powered EHRs would support predictive healthcare management within correctional facilities due to the analytical capabilities of AI systems. However, such systems are facing a lot of systemic resistance and reluctance within the Arizona Department of Corrections and the entire U.S. jail and prison system.
To help overcome such resistance and guide the department through needed change, the transformational leadership theory would guide the leader of the department to understand, design, and communicate their vision for AI-powered EHRs, including their superiority over current medical records systems. It can also help the leader to inspire and motivate stakeholders through role modeling to achieve buy-in and embrace the change of the systems. Additionally, the theory can guide other staff to embrace a culture of innovativeness and creativity in managing health within the recreation department.
References
Den Hartog, D. N. (2019). Transformational Leadership. Encyclopedia of Business and Professional Ethics, 1–4. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-23514-1_57-1
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Question 
Provide a 250- to 300-word (minimum) response that addresses each of the following elements:
Select one of the contemporary leadership theories mentioned above. Briefly explain its core principles and how they typically translate into a leadership approach in a professional setting.
Exploring Transformational Leadership- Principles and Application in Professional Settings
Compare and contrast this theory with a general leadership approach (e.g., transactional, democratic) you’ve observed or experienced in your career field. How do the theory’s principles align or differ from the practical approach?
Provide an example or scenario from your career field (real or hypothetical) where the principles of the chosen theory could offer a distinct advantage or improvement over conventional leadership approaches, particularly in guiding an organization through change. Explain your answer.