Communication that Develops: Clarity of Process on Transformational Leadership through Study of Effective Communication of Emotional Intelligence

Abstract

Transformational leadership was once thought of as a trait-based approach to leadership rather than something that could be taught and learned, and that the process itself somehow lacked clarity. This essay sets out to demonstrate both points to be false, all the while identifying the value of educating Christian leaders on the essence and process of transformational leadership. The Momeny communication process theory explains process clarity as it relates to transformational leadership, its communication, and education.

Communication that Develops Teams: Healthy Ministry Team Dynamics as a Function of Consistent Leader Communication of Emotional Intelligence

“…Excellent communication by emotionally intelligent leaders is key to team health. It has been noted to be the medium utilized to influence and otherwise motivate and develop a subordinate or team in an approach that is consistent with transformational leadership theory (Momeny & Gourgues, 2019; Northouse, 2019). To communicate successfully as an emotionally intelligent leader one must be focused on the transformational approach that is indicative of discipleship making.…”

“…However, in its simplest form, a leader is qualified as someone whom others follow and a Christian leader is someone that “follows Christ and whom other persons follow” (Kessler & Kretzschmar, 2015, p. 2). For the Christian team leader this would be in effect leading a team toward the refined process of “shepherding others on their journey through spiritual formation” and reaching out to those who do not yet know Christ (Momeny & Gourgues, 2019, p. 227; Sanders, 2007). Whether the ministry team leader in question is leading others in hospice care or youth ministry-centric, the team should ultimately reduce the burden on the pastoral leader/team, thereby improving the ability of the church to reach others and extending the longevity and effectiveness of the ministry leader(s) (Stone, 1991).…”

“…Whether championing a team-oriented project such as a space telescope or leading a ministry team through a diverse cultural environment, the health of the team dynamic is dependent upon the communication and actions of the leader and how those efforts then influence the collective emotional norm (Wolff, 2001). To communicate successfully, a leader must first be educated on understanding the process involved with leading an individual and their worth to the team prior to effectively extending such efforts in a team setting (Momeny & Gourgues, 2019; 1 Corinthians 12). Even the current Christian body and its leaders can benefit from such leader education on transformational leadership supported by communication of EI, as indicated by a recent Barna Group study (Barna Group 2015; see also White & Kimmons, 2019).…”

“…Excellent and consistent communication is a medium/tool of the leader that lays the initial leadership foundation for team dynamics. When that communication is further enhanced with emotional intelligence (EI) to develop key aspects of the leader-team member relationships, trust can be built, group identity increased and collective efficacy achieved (Momeny & Gourgues, 2019, pp. 233–236; HBR, 2015; Wolff, 2001).…”

“…To communicate successfully as an emotionally intelligent leader one must be focused on the transformational approach that is indicative of discipleship making. A ministry leader can benefit greatly through education of a consistent process, such as that outlined in the Communication Process Theory, or CPT (Momeny & Gourgues, 2019, p. 231). CPT is a theory in support of transformational leadership that employs deliberate utilization of EI by developing and leading a team member toward individual growth and refined understanding of their value to the greater team (Momeny & Gourgues, 2019; 1 Corinthians 12).…”