Comments on: Transformational Leadership

By: Ben Grey

Ben Grey — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 12:02:31 +0000

Melissa- Thanks for the feedback.

Karen- The question about getting constituent buy-in is, in my opinion, a compelling cause to work toward creating a shared vision. Involve everyone in the building as you create a vision that serves the group. Employ the democratic process (which can be very difficult, something I’m going to write about in the near future) and invoke the leadership of the individuals in the building. Collectively, the institution is much smarter and more effective than taken as many individuals.

I would also recommend The Jossey-Bass Reader on Educational Leadership by Michael Fullan. That is the book I’ve most enjoyed and been most challenged by thus far.

Sheryl- I read your post just prior to your comment, but hadn’t read Anthony’s response. Thanks for sharing. Both good reads.

Monika- If I could, I’m sure I would.

Deven- I love the “work with him” statement. I’m certainly going to strive to make that a key part of any leadership role I take.

By: Deven Black

Deven Black — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 01:43:10 +0000

I’d also ask you to hire me except that I already work with a principal who is aso-far successful transformational leader. Notice I said I work with him, not for him. That is a testament to the nature of transformational leadership; my colleagues and I are part of the transformation, we have a say on how it works and a stake in its success. Our principal asks important questions and listens as we discuss the possible responses.We all learn and feel valued in the process.

I wish you good fortune on your process of establishing yourself as a transformational leaderr.

By: monika hardy

monika hardy — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 01:12:16 +0000

i like it. hire me.

By: Sheryl Nussbaum-Beach

Sheryl Nussbaum-Beach — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 00:55:24 +0000

Great minds think alike. I too have been thinking about transformational leadership.

The Fabric of Community- The Key to Transforming Education http://snipurl.com/oh33a

Great post in response to mine on Tcher Mag http://bit.ly/O6LaN

By: KarenJanowski

KarenJanowski — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 00:51:21 +0000

Ben,
Not annoyed at all, in fact, I find your post enlightening.

You state “such leaders should look to increase constituent’s investment and enrollment in the institution’s vision” as stated by Burello in his book about transformational leadership. This seems to be an essential starting place but it’s not easily achieved. How do leaders get buy-in from those they lead? To put this in practical terms, how does a new principal or superintendent achieve constituent investment in their vision?

Having never heard of Argvris, I appreciated your inclusion of a link to his work. Fascinating. This whole topic is not one that I have as yet explored so I’m grateful that you tweeted this post and shared your thoughts. I look forward to learning more from you. Any book suggestions to delve further into this topic without entering a leadership program?

By: Melissa Varley

Melissa Varley — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 01:00:01 +0000

Ben, I’m impressed. What a well written and presented blog. Networked learning is imperative for all to feel that they have a “voice” in the organization.