Leading with Impact through Leadership Styles to Shaping Organizational Growth

Abstract

The study of leadership styles is significant in both theory and practice, as leadership approaches profoundly influence individual and organizational performance. This paper examines the five primary leadership styles—transformational, transactional, strength-based, adaptive, and servant leadership—by exploring their defining characteristics and practical applications. Transformational leadership is distinguished by key elements such as intellectual stimulation, inspirational communication, and a compelling vision. Transactional leadership, in contrast, is characterized by contingent reward systems and management by exception. Strength-based leadership focuses on identifying, utilizing, and developing individual strengths to enhance team performance. Adaptive leadership equips leaders with the ability to navigate complexity and change effectively. Finally, servant leadership prioritizes the well-being of followers, emphasizing ethical behavior, emotional support, and empowerment. Various models and measurement frameworks for these leadership styles are also discussed to guide future research and practice.