Gordon Graham here with Today鈥檚 Tip from Lexipol. Today鈥檚 Tip is for all my friends in public safety. I want to talk about transformational leadership.
You know, when I first started my law enforcement career, leadership was pretty basic. Our relationship with our superiors was transactional. The good sarge barked an order, and all the patrol men and women jumped into action. We didn鈥檛 have much discussion or many opportunities for feedback. The agency established guidelines, and we were expected to meet them. The reward was continued employment and a paycheck 鈥� the transaction was complete.
Life in today鈥檚 workplace isn鈥檛 so simple. Oh yes, the agency still expects you to perform your job to the best of your ability. But today鈥檚 leaders must motivate employees to foster a desire for action. That requires transformational leadership. Now don鈥檛 worry, folks; the transaction is still there, it鈥檚 just implied.
With transformational leadership, To solve problems, not just follow rules. This involves mentoring and professional development. It also requires the agency to give a clear picture of its vision 鈥� what it wants to accomplish and why it鈥檚 so important.
Why is transformational leadership the effective way to lead today? It emphasizes personal and professional growth. It challenges the status quo and empowers employees to feel like part of a team. Transformational leadership also and encourages new ideas that will improve service delivery. It鈥檚 a win-win for both the agency and those who work there.
Today鈥檚 employees are smarter than ever. Helping them leverage their strengths while working to overcome weaknesses promotes growth, innovation, and creativity.
And that鈥檚 Today鈥檚 Tip from Lexipol. Until next time, Gordon Graham signing off.
