The Corporate Finance Institute describes leadership styles as the behavioural approaches used by leaders to motivate and direct their followers, ensuring they meet objectives while considering stakeholder expectations and team well-being.
“Studies carried out indicate that followers who trust in their leader are more likely to follow through with the leader’s instructions over and above the expected. In turn, they will accomplish set goals while being allowed to speak freely to air their ideas and suggestions on the direction of the projects at hand.”
To examine the different leadership styles that exist, relevant publications detail more on how they operate:
Autocratic: According to Indeed, this leadership style, also known as the authoritarian style, prioritises results and team efficiency. “Autocratic leaders often make decisions alone or with a small and trusted group and expect employees to do exactly what they’re asked.”
Democratic: The democratic style encourages team input and feedback, fostering higher employee engagement and workplace satisfaction, states the above source. It is said to value group discussions, provides all information, promotes a rational, flexible work environment. “They promote a work environment where everyone shares their ideas and are characteristically rational and flexible.”
Laissez-Faire: According to Institute Project Manager, Laissez-faire leadership, also known as delagative leadership, is a hands-off approach where the leader allows group members to make decisions without proper supervision. “Delegative leader is on the complete opposite side of the spectrum from the autocratic leader. Having proper supervision is rare and while, to the team, it may appear as trust, a balance must exist to ensure the organisation remains on the right path to completion of its goals.”
Bureaucratic: The above publication claims that this leadership style is ideal for businesses that require consistency and rigid rules. It is said to create a line of command with each leader having their own jurisdiction. “The bureaucratic leadership style is focused on the administrative needs of the organisation and it heavily relies on consistency and adherence to the rigid rules and regulations to get whatever results they seek.” However, this style is believed to have drawbacks such as inflexibility, difficulty in adapting to change, and limited creativity. “By sticking to the status quo, great opportunities for business growth can be overlooked.”
Coaching: The Harvard Business Review reveals that the coaching leadership style emphasises individual growth by understanding team members’ long-term goals, encouraging reflection on aspirations, and providing genuine interest in their development. ” By taking a genuine interest in their development, you help your employees feel valued and motivated.”
Also see: Aspiring women leaders can break barriers by leading with passion and purpose
