Leadership is more than a title or position; it’s a mindset, an attitude, and a set of actions that reflect our morals, virtues, and values. For Christian leaders, it means being the “light of the world” as Jesus called us to be (John 8:12). This light shines through our unique leadership styles—styles crafted by God to be dynamic, impactful, and purpose-driven. This article invites you to reflect on your leadership style, understand its importance, and consider the Full Range Leadership Development (FRLD) model to bring out the best in yourself as a leader.
Why Knowing Your Leadership Style Matters
Throughout my 35-year career, potential employees and leaders often ask, “What type of leader are you?” Early on, I’d answer with phrases like “relational leader,” “honest and fair,” or “not a micromanager.” Yet, as my understanding of leadership deepened, I realized these responses barely scratched the surface. Leadership is more than these descriptions; it’s a serious responsibility to our teams, our organizations, and our God-given purpose.
Understanding your leadership style isn’t just for interviews or self-reflection. It’s a vital piece of serving well. Leaders who understand their styles can adapt, grow, and influence with purpose and accountability. That’s why, a few years ago, I started digging into leadership theory, beginning a journey that helped me see that no single style fits all situations. Instead, effective leadership is a blend of different styles.
Lessons from Life and Leadership
Often, our leadership style forms from experiences with past leaders. We mimic the good behaviors of great leaders and vow never to repeat the mistakes of poor ones. Reflecting on my own journey, I noticed how some key values shaped me as a leader.
- Kindness: Leadership requires kindness, often beyond the call of duty. A leader I worked with showed compassion when she provided a stipend to an employee who couldn’t afford professional attire. This wasn’t in any policy, but her kindness empowered the employee and ultimately benefited the organization.
- Integrity: I’ve encountered leaders who couldn’t be trusted, who ridiculed their employees, and who prioritized profits over people. Those experiences taught me to lead differently, to let integrity be my guide. As a Christian, integrity means honoring God’s call to act justly and lead with respect.
Leadership is purpose-driven, not task-driven, and God reminds us to press on in doing good (Galatians 6:9). When we neglect developing our leadership skills, we are, in essence, giving up on God’s purpose for us. We are called to be strong and courageous (Joshua 1:9), and that means growing as leaders with intentionality.
Exploring Full Range Leadership Development (FRLD)
If leadership styles are not one-size-fits-all, what framework can help us understand and develop our approach? Enter Full Range Leadership Development (FRLD). Developed by John Sosik and Dongil Jung, FRLD is a model that combines transformational, transactional, and laissez-faire leadership styles to create a comprehensive approach.
Each FRLD style plays a unique role:
- Transformational Leadership: This style inspires and motivates people, fostering individual growth and intellectual stimulation. It’s the foundation of FRLD, emphasizing positive change and the potential for individuals to achieve higher performance.
- Transactional Leadership: This style focuses on rewards and consequences based on performance. Transactional leaders are clear about expectations and follow through on rewards and accountability, a useful approach for achieving specific tasks.
- Laissez-Faire Leadership: This hands-off approach gives followers freedom to make decisions and act independently. Leaders must use this style wisely to balance autonomy with support and guidance.
Understanding Additional Leadership Models
FRLD incorporates several other leadership styles, each with distinct characteristics. Here’s a brief look at some of the most prominent:
- Servant Leadership: Often associated with Christian leaders, servant leadership emphasizes empathy, humility, and the commitment to serve others, aligning with Christ’s example.
- Authentic Leadership: Authentic leaders prioritize truth, accountability, and transparency, allowing followers to trust and rely on their integrity.
- Ethical Leadership: This style focuses on principles of fairness, trust, and respect for others, creating a culture that values ethical behavior and mutual respect.
- Situational Leadership: This flexible style adapts to the circumstances and needs of the organization, changing based on follower competence and the context.
These styles reveal that effective leaders often blend multiple approaches. In fact, leadership situations may require shifts in style, making adaptability a key trait for successful leaders.
How FRLD Reflects Christian Values
FRLD isn’t just a model for effective leadership; it’s a pathway to align your leadership with your faith. Consider how servant, authentic, and ethical leadership can be woven into FRLD:
- Servant Leadership and FRLD: In following Jesus’ example, we serve others with humility and compassion. FRLD encourages a transformational approach where serving others becomes a means to inspire and develop them.
- Ethical Leadership and FRLD: Ethical leaders demonstrate integrity and prioritize the well-being of others, which builds trust and encourages an honest culture.
These approaches demonstrate that Christian leadership through FRLD is a blend of inspiring, developing, and serving with integrity, aligning with our God-given purpose.
The Power of Self-Awareness in Leadership
As you explore your own style within FRLD, consider creating a values-based behaviors list. Ask yourself:
- What behaviors do I admire or find inspiring?
- What actions do I want to avoid as a leader?
- What values align with my personal and organizational goals?
In addition, tools like the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ) can offer insights into your FRLD behaviors, providing feedback on your leadership strengths and areas for growth.
Developing a Personal Leadership Mission Statement (PLMS) can also anchor your leadership journey. This statement should reflect your purpose, values, and the impact you want to have on those you lead.
Next Steps for Growing as a Leader
Embracing FRLD takes intentional effort, study, and reflection. Start by learning more about the model—John Sosik and Dongil Jung’s book, Full Range Leadership Development: Pathways for People, Profit, and Planet, is a great resource.
But more than studying, pray that God guides you in developing your leadership skills. Ask Him for the wisdom and strength to fulfill your purpose as a leader. Remember, leadership is a journey of growth and faith, and God has equipped you to lead with purpose and conviction.
Embrace FRLD, reflect on your values, and grow into the leader God designed you to be.
