What Leadership Style Are YOU?

There are many different types and styles of leadership. Some are successful where others are not successful. Leadership styles are "clusters" or different kind of behaviors that are used to influence others.
Different styles have different outcomes, and it is very important as a leader to be aware of your leadership style and the way you deliver it. Three distinct leadership styles that I have heard mostly talked about have been:




Authoritarian
Democratic
Laissez-Faire









Authoritarian:

This style uses directive behaviors. Leaders tell the followers what to do and how to do it.

There is also a clear division between the leader and the followers. Authoritarian leaders make decisions independently with little or no input from the rest of the group. Authoritarian leadership is best applied to situations where there is little time for group decision-making or where the leader is the most knowledgeable member of the group.

 

Democratic:

Generally the most effective leadership style. Democratic leaders offer guidance to group members, but they also participate in the group and allow input from other group members. Participative leaders encourage group members to participate, but retain the final say over the decision-making process. Group members feel engaged in the process and are more motivated and creative.

Laissez-Faire

This leadership style offers little or no guidance to group members and leave decision-making up to group members. There is little leader participation. This style can be effective in situations where group members are highly qualified in an area of expertise like fully independent care providers or professionals working together.

 

I believe that a true mix of all three would make a great leader. I would say I am more of a democratic leader. Giving others who are involved some say in the decision making process because I believe that the best outcomes come out that way.

What are your thoughts? What kind of leader are you?