TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP FOR FIRE OFFICERS

摘要

The business (AND GOVERNMENT) environment is always changing. Because of the rapid pace of information transfer that computers and the Internet have enabled, change is now occurring at blinding speeds. This rapidly shifting environment requires a different form of leadership. To deliver results in today's business and government setting, a leader must thrive at the edge of chaos, inspire innovation and creativity, and develop work models that can sustain a competitive advantage. Such attributes are called transformational leadership. The fire service is not usually known for cutting-edge management practices. To make the large-scale changes necessary to create and maintain an efficiently managed organization requires transformational leadership. While there are some "natural" leaders, most officers need to be trained to create loyal and committed subordinates to support the change. This is accomplished in three ways: 1. Developing a link between the elements or activities of work and a higher purpose or greater accomplishment. 2. Convincing subordinates that pursuit of that purpose rises above self-interests. 3. Enhancing and empowering the subordinates' desire to reach their highest potential. Like any successful training program, the transformational change process must be planned, structured, and nurtured. The first element in the development of a training program is the identification of the underlying skills necessary for implementation of the desired outcome. The second element is the development of the process steps, using the skills mastered in step one. The final element is continued support and feedback on the use of the newly acquired skills and programs.