Leadership is a crucial factor for success in sports, whether you are a coach, a manager, a player, or a referee. But not all leaders are the same, and different situations may require different styles of leadership. In this article, you will learn how to distinguish between two common types of leadership in sports: transactional and relational.
Transactional leadership is based on the exchange of rewards and punishments between the leader and the followers. The leader sets clear goals and expectations, and provides feedback and incentives for achieving them. The followers comply with the leader's directives and receive rewards or avoid sanctions. Transactional leadership is effective when the tasks are simple, routine, and well-defined, and when the leader has the authority and resources to reward or punish the followers. For example, a coach who uses transactional leadership may reward players with more playing time, praise, or bonuses for following the game plan and performing well, or bench, criticize, or fine them for failing to do so.
Relational leadership is based on the development of trust, respect, and mutual influence between the leader and the followers. The leader focuses on the needs, values, and interests of the followers, and empowers them to participate in decision-making and problem-solving. The followers are motivated by the leader's vision, charisma, and support, and share a sense of commitment and responsibility. Relational leadership is effective when the tasks are complex, dynamic, and ambiguous, and when the leader needs to foster creativity, collaboration, and innovation. For example, a manager who uses relational leadership may involve players in setting goals and strategies, provide them with coaching and mentoring, and recognize their contributions and achievements.
Both transactional and relational leadership have advantages and disadvantages, depending on the context and the outcome. Transactional leadership can be efficient, consistent, and predictable, and can ensure compliance and quality. However, it can also be rigid, impersonal, and short-term oriented, and can reduce autonomy and initiative. Relational leadership can be flexible, personal, and long-term oriented, and can enhance engagement and loyalty. However, it can also be time-consuming, inconsistent, and unpredictable, and can create dependency and conflict.
To distinguish transactional and relational leadership in sports, you can ask yourself questions such as what are the goals and expectations of the leader and the followers, how are rewards and punishments determined and delivered, and how are decisions and problems handled. Additionally, you can assess how performance and behavior is monitored, feedback and recognition is given and received, as well as the relationships and interactions between the leader and the followers. By answering these questions, you can determine whether the leadership style is more transactional or relational and if it is suitable for the situation and desired outcome.
While transactional and relational leadership are often seen as opposites, they are not mutually exclusive. In fact, some researchers suggest that effective leaders use both styles, depending on the circumstances and the needs of the followers. For example, a leader may use transactional leadership to establish clear rules and standards, and relational leadership to inspire and empower the followers. Or, a leader may use relational leadership to build trust and rapport, and transactional leadership to provide feedback and incentives. The key is to balance the two styles, and to adapt them to the changing demands and expectations of the sport environment.
If you want to improve your leadership skills in sports, you need to develop both transactional and relational leadership. To do so, set SMART goals and expectations, communicate them clearly and frequently, and monitor and measure the progress and results. Reward achievements and correct mistakes with constructive feedback. Additionally, understand the needs, values, and interests of your followers, share your vision and passion, involve them in decision-making and problem-solving, delegate tasks and responsibilities, coach and mentor them, and appreciate their efforts. By applying these tips, you can enhance your leadership effectiveness and influence in sports, ultimately achieving better outcomes for yourself and your followers.
When considering a leadership style, you also need to consider your followers. Which style will they respond best to? Can you balance different leadership styles? Most likely, you won't fall into one particular style, you will display various different styles in different situations, with different people. This is where I think authentic leadership comes in.