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A relationship, or transformational, theory of leadership focuses on the idea that
leadership is the way that an individual interacts with his peers or subordinates. The desired
goals are motivation and inspiration. Leaders operating in accordance with this theory often
possess strong morals and ethics that are integrated into their interactions with others
(Amanchukwu, Stanley, & Ololube, 2015). A transformational leader operates in a manner that
exceeds his own interests. He is willing to make personal sacrifices in order to encourage team
productivity as well as morale and unity (Kovach, 2018). In order for a relational approach to be
effective, leaders must be regularly engaged with their subordinates.
According to Kovach (2018), transformational leadership is a skill that is invaluable
regardless of the industry in which it is employed. The ability of a leader to look beyond his own
interests is a skill developed by practice. Naturally, people are selfish and seek their own
advancement. 1 Corinthians 10:24 says “No one should seek their own good, but the good of
others” (New International Version). Elisha is an Old Testament example of a strong
transformational leader. He not only proclaimed the word of God to God’s people, but also
related to them compassionately and helped those in need (Merida, 2015). This type of selfless
investment in others helps to build trust and respect as a foundation from which to influence
people (Kovach, 2018).
Often transformational leadership involves placing trust and confidence in those who do
not believe they are capable of completing a task or accomplishing a goal (Kovach, 2018). This
outward trust and confidence must not be given nonchalantly, however. A relational leader
needs to be willing to back this trust with the emotional support, resources, and skills training
necessary to facilitate the desired accomplishment by his subordinates. Those who possess the
relational leadership style generally strive consciously to develop it and move from being
DISCUSSION BOARD FORUM 2 3
transactional leaders into the more effective transformational style of management and
inspiration. Transactional leadership is an effective method of leadership for achieving
productivity and inspiration, but transformational leadership can help a leader become
exponentially more effective (Kovach, 2018).
Transformational leaders generally affect their subordinates through three approaches.
First, they validate to employees the importance of their work and their position within the
organization. Second, these leaders help their employees to realize the need for growth and
development in their personal and professional lives. These first two steps set the stage for the
third action of motivating employees to strive for improvement of the organization rather than
just individual accomplishment (Kovach, 2018).
In the New Testament, Paul used transactional leadership to persuade Philemon to show
mercy to a slave that had transgressed against Philemon. Paul appealed to his relationship with
Philemon in order to accomplish the restoration of a relationship and to provide an example of
mercy and forgiveness for others in the early church. Philemon 1:1 says “…To Philemon our
beloved friend and fellow laborer” (New King James Version). Paul continued in verse 4 saying
“I thank my God, making mention of you always in my prayers” (New King James Version).
This is an ancient example of a great church leader’s attempt to accomplish something for the
greater good by appealing to a relational element between the two men in an attempt to inspire
action towards a desired goal.
In conclusion, transformational leadership is not the only leadership theory with proven
results. It requires skill and practice to employ effectively (Kovach, 2018). It is, however, one
of the most effective means of ensuring simultaneous achievement from a group and the
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References
Amanchukwu, R. N., Stanley, G. J., & Ololube, N. P. (2015). A review of leadership theories,
principles and styles and their relevance to educational management.AManagement,A5(1),
6–14. doi: 10.5923/j.mm.20150501.02.
Kovach, M. (2018). An examination of leadership theories in business and sport achievement
contexts.AJournal of Values-Based Leadership,A11(2), 1–16. doi: 10.22543/0733.62.1215.
Merida, T. (2015). Christ-centered exposition: Exalting Jesus in 1 & 2 Kings. Tennessee: B & H
Publishing Group.
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