Annotated Bibliography

Introduction

After reviewing several peer-reviewed articles and researching leadership styles, I discovered there are numerous styles of leadership, and amazingly there is no right or wrong style to utilize. Leadership styles are based upon individual preferences that are needed to accommodate the needs of the leader and the followers. The characteristics necessary to be a great leader can be learned with proper training and practice; however, the mastery is effortless when it comes natural to lead and guide others. Berger (2014) identified three distinguished features of a great leader. He states being a great leader consists of being able to show others what are expected of them for the betterment of themselves to accomplish successful results. Leading by example is also a great way to improve leadership skills. A good leader must be willing to lead by example to show followers what appropriate behaviors are expected to handle different situations. Our textbook _______________ discusses in depth information about different leadership styles. I would like to focus on Transformational Leadership, Authentic Leadership, Servant Leadership, and Adaptive Leadership Styles.

(BRIEFLY TELL ABOUT EACH LEADERSHIP STYLE)

Transformational Leadership….

Authentic Leadership….

Servant Leadership…

Adaptive Leadership…

Thesis

Current research and reviews of literature suggests leadership styles are influenced by leader follower relationships, leadership behavior, and organizational environments.

Theme One:

Leader Follower Relationship

Opening Statement

A good leader must build relationships with their followers. Followers will put forth their best efforts when there is a connection of appreciation and value between themselves and their leader.

Antonakis, J., Fenley, M., & Liechti, S. (2011)

Antonakis et al (2011) discusses the connection between charisma and being a good leader. Leaders exhibiting charisma have better chances of creating constructive leader follower relationships, building trust levels between one another, being viewed as an achiever and trustworthy, and being able to inspire followers which will help surge success rates as a whole. Some leaders are born with natural talents to be a good leader; however, learning charismatic features will help heighten great leadership ability. Having a strong leader follower relationship will motive followers to perform to their full potential.

Berger (2014)

Berger (2014) emphasizes on the intertwining relationship between a leader and their followers. The relationship works hand in hand with one another. The leader depends on the follower to produce an effective outcome while the follower depends upon the leader for the necessary tools to complete the tasks and to receive praise or appreciation for doing an outstanding job.

Podsakoff, P.,

MacKenzie, S., Paine, J., & Bachrach, D. (2000)

Theme Two:

Leadership Behavior

Opening Statement

A good leader is respected and closely watched by their followers. They are expected to handle matters in a quick, safe, and decent fashion. Possessing great morals, even in times of distress, is a major characteristic anticipated of a good leader.

Antonakis, J., Fenley, M., & Liechti, S. (2011)

Berger (2014)

In a review of literature Berger (2014) discusses how leadership behavior influences followers. He indicates how a leader must adjust their behavior and attitudes to situations for a more positive effect. Leaders must be aware of their surroundings and be willing to make necessary changes that will benefit the organization as a whole. He goes on to further state that changing a situation is not always the best option; therefore, a great leader must be willing to adjust their actions accordingly to improve achievement.

Podsakoff, P.,

MacKenzie, S., Paine, J., & Bachrach, D. (2000)

Theme Three:

Organizational Environment

Opening Statement

It is vital for a good leader to create a safe and comfortable working environment for everyone. Most people’s career settings are their home away from home; therefore, establishing a safe haven will help increase the production rates and make the team efforts more efficient.

Antonakis, J., Fenley, M., & Liechti, S. (2011)

Antonakis et al (2011) discusses how a good leader with charisma is able to gain followers because of their eagerness to learn, hospitality, and appreciation shown towards others. Their followers are more in tune to follow leaders that are confident and let their prospering works speak for itself. Followers also appreciate a good leader that is willing to listen to their thoughts and concerns making them feel more valued and appreciated. Leaders should maintain a good attitude and always try their best to display a positive attitude. Leaders with an enthused attitude will more like build a great team of followers that are anxious to succeed and do their best.

Berger (2014)

Berger (2014) discusses how close knit relationships with others are important within an organization. Leaders must be able to create and make those relationships withstand when faced with various obstacles. Members of the organization must feel appreciated and valued.

Podsakoff, P.,

MacKenzie, S., Paine, J., & Bachrach, D. (2000)

Conclusion

In conclusion, the three reviews of literature enlighten readers by focusing on leader follower relationships, leadership behavior, and organizational environments. A great leader must build relationships with their followers, be willing to adapt to their working environments to benefit the team as a whole, and create a peaceful organizational environment for everyone. A leader should know the importance of gaining as much knowledge and information pertaining to leadership styles as possible to help influence becoming a successful leader. It is essential for a leader to build a long lasting and positive relationship with their followers. The more followers are able to rely and depend on their leaders, the more they are willing to put forth their best efforts to achieve manifesting results for productivity. Leaders instilling trust and showing great outcomes will gain a better rapport with followers to help build walls of trust between the two. A great leader must always display positive manners, charisma, and morals. Treating others the way you want to be treated is a key to leadership behavior. A good leader will lead by example and respect their followers. Remaining calm and patient in times of turmoil will help alleviate and control the situation. Last but not least creating a safe and loving organizational environment helps to set the stage. If followers know their leader is concerned about their safety and well-being it will let them know they are loved and appreciated as a person and not just an employee. Ensuring everyone is comfortable and helping to eliminate tension amongst fellow crew members will improve team work which in return will result in maximizing work production. Happy followers are anxious to satisfy and will commit themselves to their leader and their job.