What is transactional leadership and how can I use it?

Transactional leadership may be an unpopular tool in a nursing manager’s box, but it can help achieve short-term goals and provide clear direction and structure

• Transactional leadership sets nurses well-defined rewards and penalties, creating a clear and easy-to-understand structure
• Benefits of this style depend on circumstances – and it may have a negative influence on nurses’ job satisfaction
• The rewards and punishments approach is best combined with other forms of leadership reflecting compassion and inclusivity

Transactional leadership has fallen out of fashion at a time when listening to and empowering team members is encouraged. But the reality is that you may well use