The Concept of Transformational Leadership

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The concept of transformational leadership relies on appropriate leadership approaches for mission success. AFDD 1-1 describes three leadership competencies: person, people/team, organization Effective leaders (tactical level) need to build face-to-face and interpersonal relationships that directly influence behavior and values. Effective leaders (operational level) need to build team dynamics for small groups and squadrons. Effective leaders (strategic level) need to build strategy and provide direction in a broad spectrum. Leadership at the tactical level is built on personal interaction. This type of leadership is face to face and encourages adherence to policy and procedures. This leadership also takes into account the human element of command. In the LW course, we studied numerous leaders that exhibited this type of leadership style. Robin Olds was a leader that transformed the squadron they led. Three keys to their leadership were mission success, people focus, and espirt de corps. The Fighter Pilot learned first by learning and understanding the mission. Robin Olds took the time to gather data about the mission. He would listen to pilots. In fact, when he arrived he would fly in the wing position to learn. He needs to understand the mission, threats, and dangers of the tasking orders. Olds leadership of learning was important to his developing trust with his men. They saw a leader was not self-absorbed. His transformational leadership style was learning through collaboration. The Fighter Pilot leadership included attention to moral. Transformational leaders are able to enhance the moral of the team. Robin Olds intense charisma was contagious in the unit. Olds told the pilots when he arrived he was not the best pilot for t... ... middle of paper ... ... evident in the transformational style of Robin Olds, Curtis LeMay, and Billy Mitchell. These leaders had character flaws; however, it did not prevent them from being effective and transformational. The culture of the Air Force as a separate service is attributed to the pioneering spirit of Billy Mitchell. The culture of technology and strategic defense is a capstone for Curtis LeMay. The culture of the Air Force gaining and maintaining air superiority with Esprirt de Corp is the lasting tribute to Robin Olds. Transformational leaders exhibit personal and professional qualities that other want to emulate and follow. These leaders advance the mission in combative environments. Transformational leaders propel the growth of the team through communication. Finally, transformational leaders leave a legacy that instills pride, moral, and determination for future success.

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