February 06, 2023 | Read Online

4 Ways to Be a More Transformational Leader

Hall-of-Fame Coach Bill Walsh always wanted players, staff and coaches who were prepared and willing to raise their level of performance.

How can we as leaders, teachers and parents raise our level of influence?

How can we develop an edge that motivates those we lead?

Can we still be effective without changing or modifying our leading patterns?

These are questions Bill Walsh, the former Hall-of-Fame coach of the San Francisco 49ers, would often ponder. As Walsh moved further into the head coaching chair and away from being an assistant, he knew he needed to become a transformational leader.

In his book, The Score Takes Care of Itself, Walsh writes: "You must make those around you feel somewhat uneasy, ill at ease in not knowing what to expect from you, the leader."

Walsh wanted players, staff and coaches who were always prepared and willing to raise their level of performance. Walsh got comfortable being aloof, keeping his distance and not allowing those around him to read his actions. He felt keeping everyone on their toes meant making everyone more productive.

Walsh never screamed or yelled. He was a teacher at heart; yet, he understood that being unpredictable was one of the best tools in his leadership toolbox.

Walsh's leadership style was never abusive or degrading. He respected every player, hating the old school, Neanderthal, clumsy and heavy-handed approach toward leading.

He found his hard edge by first communicating his expectations clearly and concisely to players, coaches and staff. Then, he adopted the belief he needed to be fast, firm and fair. When something wasn't right — whether it was a player's behavior, a coach not producing or a staff member not living up to the performance standard — Walsh would act fast with a firm resolve.

But he was always fair.

Many might consider his leadership style soft because it didn't fit the day's norms or the harshness of the sport he coached. But plenty of experts would refer to Walsh's style as "Transformational."

Transformational leadership is perhaps most focused on the leader’s personality. This type of leader guides employees with a clear vision for success. According to Northeastern University, this leadership style inspires innovation and generally creates a positive workplace culture.

Here are ways we, too, can develop into more transformational leaders:

1. Act as a role model to employees. Walsh ensured everyone followed his Standard of Excellence, including himself.
2. Close, consistent focus on the company vision. Walsh never let anyone forget the main objective: to work hard on the process of winning.
3. A high value on interpersonal relationships. Walsh was a teacher and wanted to understand his students in every facet of their lives.
4. Inspire as a tool to motivate employees. Walsh used his intelligence as inspiration. The players knew he could answer any question with complete detail.

As we grow into our own leadership roles, we need to find our voice. That starts with being true to our core beliefs — and making sure those we lead are following along.