Question

2. Consider the Leader-Member Exchange Theory, what do you see as the significant contradiction between this theory and Fiedler’s Contingency Theory when it comes to leadership styles. Explain fully.

3. Explain Transformational Leadership and Charismatic Leadership. What do you see as similarities in these two styles and what do you see as dissimilarities. Explain fully giving examples.

Answer 1

2. Leader-Member Exchange Theory talks about the position of leaders in the group and how they maintain their relationships with the people in those groups. These relationships are maintained for the growth of both of them and is build on trust, respect , loyalty and freedom. The leader believes that a better relationship with the members could yield better results.
Whereas Fiedler’s Contingency Theory contradicts the above theory by saying that there is no specific characteristic or style that a leader should follow. The style of a leader should be dependent upon the situation and therefore can never remain same. Contingency theory says that the leader is effective only when his style fits the situation which may at times require a leader to be task and success oriented and he becomes least focused on the relationships with his team members.

3. Charismatic Vs Transformational Leadership
-Charismatic leaders are charming and they have the charm that can inspire devotion in others. Here the subordinates admire the personality and charm of the leader and therefore devote themselves in his/her work. They have strong relationships with their workers and are inseparable. Charismatic leaders are willing to take huge risks.
- Charismatic leaders are born and have inherited it.
- they do not focus on bringing about a change in the organisation.
- they generally work on their own personal goals

On the other hand Transformational leaders bring about a change in individuals and social system. This kind of leader believes in the potential of his followers and helps them to develop into leaders and surpass him/her. They act as a role model and motivates the individual to achieve their goals.
- Transformational leaders are not born like this , they are trained to become leaders.
- They bring a positive change in organisation or individual or a system
- They focus on collective goals

But to conclude both are leaders and works to achieve goals for the organisation having clear vision in mind. A persona can exhibit the qualities of both kinds of leadership. Initially charisma can work but in long run the person has to be transformational leader to sustain the faith of his followers.