- Review the Resources and examine the leadership theories and behaviors introduced.
- Identify two to three scholarly resources, in addition to this Module’s readings, that evaluate the impact of leadership behaviors in creating healthy work environments.
- Reflect on the leadership behaviors presented in the three resources that you selected for review
Post two key insights you had from the scholarly resources you selected. Describe a leader whom you have seen use such behaviors and skills, or a situation where you have seen these behaviors and skills used in practice. Be specific and provide examples. Then, explain to what extent these skills were effective and how their practice impacted the workplace
- Transformational Leadership and Healthy Work Environments: Scholars often highlight the positive impact of transformational leadership on creating healthy work environments. Transformational leaders inspire and motivate their teams by fostering a sense of purpose, intellectual stimulation, and individualized consideration. This style of leadership tends to promote trust, cooperation, and a supportive atmosphere within a workplace. An example could be a leader who encourages open communication, provides mentorship, and actively involves employees in decision-making processes, thereby boosting morale and engagement.
- Servant Leadership and Employee Well-being: Another theory that often surfaces in discussions about healthy work environments is servant leadership. This style emphasizes the leader’s focus on the needs of their employees, prioritizing their growth and development. Servant leaders often demonstrate empathy, active listening, and a commitment to serving their team. In practice, this might involve a leader who spends time understanding individual employee goals, offers support and resources for their professional development, and values the well-being of employees above other organizational metrics. Such leadership can foster a culture of care, trust, and mutual respect within a workplace.
For instance, in a prior role, I observed a manager who embodied aspects of transformational leadership. This manager consistently held open forums where team members could voice their ideas and concerns without fear of reprisal. They actively sought input from team members, implemented suggestions that aligned with the company’s goals, and provided continuous feedback and support. As a result, the team felt empowered, communication improved, and overall productivity increased noticeably.
In another scenario, a CEO exemplified servant leadership by actively advocating for work-life balance initiatives. This leader encouraged flexible working hours, mental health days, and provided resources for stress management and personal development. Consequently, the company experienced reduced turnover rates, increased employee satisfaction, and a more positive workplace atmosphere.
Both of these instances demonstrate how specific leadership behaviors, when practiced effectively, can significantly impact the workplace by fostering trust, enhancing employee morale, and creating a supportive environment conducive to productivity and growth.