What is a common criticism of transformational leadership?

Transformational leadership is often lauded for its ability to inspire and motivate followers to achieve greater levels of performance and to foster an engaging and supportive work environment. However, a common criticism is that it may lead to dependency on the leader. This can occur because transformational leaders often develop strong emotional connections with their followers, guiding them through vision and personal charisma. When employees become overly reliant on the leader for motivation, vision, and direction, they may perform well only under that specific leader's influence, which can inhibit their growth and confidence in making independent decisions.

Such dependency can undermine the long-term viability of the organization if the leader leaves or if team members leave the organization, as the staff may struggle to operate effectively without that transformative presence. This critique highlights the need for balance, ensuring that while leaders inspire and motivate, they also empower team members to cultivate their leadership skills and autonomy. This understanding is crucial for any organization aiming to sustain performance and innovation beyond the tenure of any single leader.