It is election time. Colombia is preparing for a crucial event in its democratic and political calendar: regional elections. A day in which, as citizens, we have the power to elect mayors, governors and councilors, who will have the great responsibility of leading our territories in the coming years. And although I am not part of the public policy scene in Colombia, it seems pertinent to talk about leadership, in particular, transformational leadership and the characteristics that both businessmen and politicians should have for the consolidation of a better country - which is ultimately the dream of every society.
The figure of the leader in transformational leadership
From an academic perspective, literature and theory in general, there are multiple profiles of the figure of the leader. It depends on the author and the era, the definition of different models to which certain values, competencies and leadership skills are attributed.
In recent years I have enjoyed the study of leadership - as an object of study - and, shared and debated with friends of multiple nationalities our views on the role of the leader and transformational leadership.
Here is a brief summary - adjusted to the political context that inspired me to write this article.
Attributes of a transformational leader
Commitment
Many of us might assume, or take for granted, the leader's commitment to his followers. However, in the world of politics it is common for voters to feel a sense of betrayal, of deception. In this sense, Simon Sinek speaks in his books and lectures of the concept of "betrayal.leadership contract" and explains this feeling of "cheating" as a breach or violation of contract.
According to an article in the ENAE Business SchoolIf the leader is not consistent between what he says, what he does and what he offers, he cannot generate the credibility that is so vital for the correct exercise of leadership. When a leader is faithful to a genuine commitment to his followers, whether they are citizens, employees or volunteers, he demonstrates that he is willing to invest time, energy and resources in their welfare and development. Who would not want to feel represented, defended,
Engagement, in addition to strengthening relationships between leaders and followers, drives personal and organizational growth, building a solid foundation for a prosperous and sustainable future.
collaborative.
Delegation
This is one of the attributes most highlighted by a publication of the Forbes Magazine. Delegating lightens the leader's workload, allowing him/her to focus on strategic tasks and empowers team members, fostering their growth, development and value of accountability.
By relying on others to manage certain areas, leaders are also building a resilient organizational structure capable of adapting to change. Delegating promotes a sense of shared responsibility and fosters innovation. Transformational leadership directly impacts teams and promotes delegation.
Communication
An article in the Asana bloga project management platform, talks about the importance of this skill. Communication deficiencies almost always result in a lack of clarity in organizational operations. Communication is a crucial element of transformational leadership, and is the vehicle for inspiring, guiding and leading a team.
Strengthening listening fosters an environment of trust and mutual understanding. This positively impacts relationships and ensures that everyone is aligned on the same goal. Knowing how to convey messages - the other part of communication - is also critical to ensure alignment of everyone on a team.
Resolution
In an interesting article Francisco Javier Diez published on LinkedIn highlights that the life and routine of transformational leadership is meant to face y solve problems. And that purpose is also related to a vocation of service, the vocation of being at the disposal of others.
Francisco points out that "the closer you are to the people, the easier it will be to understand the problem and consequently the easier it will be to find a solution.". This closeness is a fundamental element for future leaders, politicians and businessmen to be able to make the right decisions in the daily situations we face.
Vision
This is perhaps the most prevalent element in the literature. Vision, that is, having a clear and ambitious vision not only inspires others, it also guides the team's actions toward meaningful goals.
Defining a vision, which is the direct responsibility of transformational leadership, provides a sense of direction, motivating people to work together toward a common goal. A visionary leader is able to anticipate challenges and opportunities, enabling strategic planning and informed decision making.
At this electoral juncture, it is important to reflect on the qualities of leaders,
both political and business, must have in order to consolidate a better country. These
qualities not only define them, but are also the cornerstones on which they are built.
the future of a country is built.
