Introduction to Management

Leadership throughout history and in today’s society has been imperative in bringing about change whether in the business society or in social aspects. Many great people were revered as leaders such as Dr Martin Luther king Jr who was seen as a great leader of his time as he showed the five principle of a leader. This essay will go into the five principles of a visionary leader and state which leadership style best suits the five principles and lastly if visionary leadership is the cornerstone to managerial success or if it just one of several traits great leaders should display. Leadership is defined by (Robbins et al 2011, pg. 330) as ‘the ability to influence a group towards the achievement of a vision or set of goals’. Visionary leadership is defined by (Schermerhorn et al, 2011, p.316) as the leader ‘bringing to the condition a clear sense of the future and an understanding of how to get there’. It is impossible for a leader to only rely on having a vision they also need other traits such as self- confidence, motivation and many more in order be an effective leader.

The five principles of visionary leadership are listed by (Schermerhorn et al, 2011, p.316) are challenge the process this includes being an innovator, inspiring innovation and lastly being supportive of people’s ideas. Challenging the process is important for a visionary leader as it allows for leader to discover new ideas and also been seen as supporting their followers, which will help to increase morale.

The next principle in being a visionary leader as stated by (Schermerhorn et al, 2011, p.316) is showing enthusiasm which means just to inspire others through your own enthusiasm. Showing enthusiasm is important for visionary leader as it shows other that you are interest in the common goal or vision and are more likely to have the support of your followers.

The third principle in being a visionary leader as indicated by (Schermerhorn et al, 2011, p.316) is help others to act, this