Transformational leaders do all of the following EXCEPT:
a) Provide employees with challenging opportunities
b) Mentor and develop subordinates
c) Encourage people to approach problems from new perspectives
d) Exercise their authority based on their rank in the organization
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is d) Exercise their authority based on their rank in the organization.
Explanation:
Transformational leadership is a style that emphasizes inspiring and motivating followers to exceed their own self-interests for the good of the group or organization. It involves creating an environment where employees feel empowered and encouraged to innovate and grow. Transformational leaders aim to influence their teams in a way that fosters both individual and collective development, and they do not rely on traditional hierarchical power structures.
Here is why d) Exercise their authority based on their rank in the organization is not a characteristic of transformational leaders:
- Leadership Based on Rank: Leaders who rely on authority based on rank or position tend to be more aligned with transactional leadership, which is a style where the leader uses their formal authority to influence subordinates, often through rewards or punishments. In contrast, transformational leaders seek to inspire and engage their followers, often leading by example and fostering a more collaborative and inclusive environment rather than relying on formal rank to enforce decisions.
- Focus on Empowerment and Inspiration: Transformational leaders encourage personal growth, intellectual stimulation, and intrinsic motivation. They focus on mentorship, challenge, and development, rather than simply asserting their authority because of their title or position.
The other options are all characteristics of transformational leadership:
- a) Provide employees with challenging opportunities: Transformational leaders encourage followers to take on challenges that push their abilities, fostering innovation and personal development.
- b) Mentor and develop subordinates: A key element of transformational leadership is mentoring and helping others grow professionally and personally, ensuring that they reach their full potential.
- c) Encourage people to approach problems from new perspectives: Transformational leaders inspire creativity and encourage followers to think outside the box, rethinking how problems can be solved to improve the organization.
Thus, transformational leaders do not exercise their authority based on rank but rather through influence, vision, and inspiration.