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Styles of Leadership
There are many different styles of leadership that exist in the workplace. Some leaders employ just one, while others use different styles depending on the situation. Each style is unique and can have its place, though some may be more effective than others.
Autocratic Leadership
Autocratic leadership is often considered a “Do as I say” style of leading. Autocratic leaders follow their own ideas and make decisions without input from the group. This can be off-putting for team members, as they may feel controlled and unheard. As a result, this type of leadership can lead to mistrust and a low level of employee engagement. It is not surprising that Autocratic leadership is considered one of the least popular styles. It should be noted however that there are situations where this style could be appropriate, such as during emergencies when crucial, experience-based decisions need to be made quickly.
Democratic Leadership
The Democratic style of leadership is the opposite of Autocratic. It is considered participatory in that the leader empowers the team to work together. The leader helps facilitate and guide the group, and each member contributes to the decision-making process. This style fosters an environment of collaboration and mutual respect. One drawback however is that not everyone may feel comfortable getting involved in the team effort.
Determining your Leadership style
As you learn about each style of leadership, think about which one or ones you feel most closely align with who you are and how you would like to lead.
Transformational Leadership
Transformational leadership is the opposite of the Transactional style and it involves significant change. Transformational leaders work with their teams to recognize areas for innovation within the organization and they inspire and motivate team members to work towards their own improvement and growth. These leaders are actively involved in and committed to the transformation process. As a result, team members often develop a deep sense of loyalty, trust and admiration for their leaders. One drawback of this style is the time commitment involved, however, Transformational leaders can help to increase team member motivation and their desire to succeed.
Transactional Leadership
The Transactional style of leadership is centered on order and keeping the status-quo. Structure, results and a reward-penalty system make up the framework of this style. A Transactional leader looks to the self-interest of the individual and gives positive or negative reinforcement based on performance. Typically, rewards are in the form of money or other perks. Transactional leadership is best for environments that do not allow for much change such as the military and sports teams.
Laissez-Faire leadership
The Laissez-Faire style of leadership is considered the most allowing style, meaning that the leader allows team members to make decisions and perform their jobs with minimal input and guidance. Leaders with this style put trust and faith in their employees to make decisions on their own. This “hands off” style of leadership can be uplifting for the team as they may feel they have plenty of freedom, but a leader with a Laissez-Faire style should be careful because lack of direction can be counterproductive. Without enough guidance and support, there may be impassivity and a lack of accountability. As well, some team members may be unsure of their roles and duties.
What is Laissez-Faire?
Laissez-Faire
Laissez-faire is an economic and leadership philosophy that promotes a non-interventionist approach or a "hands-off" policy. In the context of economics, laissez-faire advocates for minimal government intervention in the economy, allowing free market forces to operate without excessive regulations or restrictions.
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Determining Leadership Styles
Let's review what we just learned about some of the different styles of leadership. Remember, one style is not necessarily better than the other and you can decide what works for you.
- Autocratic: Control-oriented. "Do as I say."
- Democratic: Getting team involved in making decisions together.
- Laissez-Faire: Most allowing style. Very little hands on by leader.
- Transactional: A style based on order and keeping the status quo.
- Transformational: Involves significant change.
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Employees who take EasyLlama’s Leadership Essentials course get an in-depth education about the different styles of leadership, and which one might be most effective for them. Becoming a leader is made easier with our training which includes interactive knowledge checks, real-life scenarios in Hollywood-produced videos.
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This online training course from EasyLlama explores foundational traits for an effective leader that can be applied in the workplace. Strong leaders can help maximize productivity, achieve business goals, motivate employees, handle conflict, and initiate action. The course covers:
Chapter 1: What Is Leadership?
Chapter 2: Leading with Vision and Innovation
Chapter 3: Skills of Effective Leaders
Chapter 4: Styles of Leadership
Chapter 5: Cultivating Relationships With Employees
Chapter 6: Cultivating Relationships on a Team & Organizational Level
Chapter 7: Working with Employees
Chapter 8: Handling Conflict
Chapter 9: Conclusion
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