EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The best available evidence to date strongly indicates that leaders are most effective in gaining follower commitment and inspiring performance toward goals when they do the following things: Idealized Influence—Leaders must be charismatic Leaders must exude confidence and competence. They must have, or at least appear to have, a clear since of mission, purpose, and values and they must behave in ways that are consistent with their purpose and values. They must demonstrate their commitment to achieving an important goal for their group or organization and they must show that they are willing to make personal sacrifices to achieve that goal. Leaders must conduct themselves as someone with whom their followers will take pride in being associated. Inspirational Motivation—Leaders must be inspirational Leaders must develop and articulate a clear and compelling vision of the future. Leaders must generate enthusiasm for their vision and optimism that it can be achieved. Individual Consideration—Leaders must be considerate of their followers Leaders must deal with people as individuals with unique needs, abilities, and aspirations. Leaders must coach, advise and teach their followers. Intellectual Stimulation—Leaders must be intellectually stimulating Leaders must question assumptions and the status quo. Leaders must seek innovative and creative solutions to old problems and encourage leadersr followers to do the same. Leaders must create excitement for finding new perspectives and new ways of doing things. Contingent Reward—Leaders must reward accomplishment Leaders must make their expectations clear and reward performance. Followers must know where they stand with their leader and that they will be rewarded if they meet or exceed their leader's expectations