ABSTRACT
The transformational approach to leadership that empowers staff is recognized as the most effective approach to use with professional staff that are independent in their practice. Magnet recognizes transformational leadership as one of the major tenets of the review process for Magnet designation and vital to successful healthcare organizations. This chapter talks about the creation of an empowered workplace that excites and engages the staff. In order to provide an effective and successful work environment for the staff, the leader must know what that looks like to the staff. The only way to understand what the environment needs to look like is to get to know the staff. There is great competition between healthcare organizations for competent staff and in the future, secondary to the anticipation of the increased health needs of the baby boomer generation, the demand will increase for competent workers. Satisfied workers don't leave their jobs and are more engaged and committed.
