Leadership is a crucial aspect that is part of any organization that involves several people. There are different leadership styles that are suitable for different purposes and situations. These styles differ according to the approach used and the relationship between the leader and the subordinates. Your leadership style can be the deciding factor in preparing your organization for success or failure. However, it is important to understand that although some organizations thrive from a particular style of leadership, using the same style can cause other organizations to face difficulties. Regardless of the company you work for, you are likely to find one of these six common leadership styles.
Service leadership
In service leadership, power and authority are decentralized from the leader and goes to the subordinates throughout the organization. In this scenario, the leader’s duty is to provide an adequate environment where all members are encouraged to participate in the leadership process by offering their opinions. Service leadership is crucial to create an open atmosphere where employees can contribute to the organization’s leadership process.
Transformational leadership
Transformational leadership focuses more on inspiring employees to become competent personnel who are capable of taking on leadership positions in the future. Organizations that support transformational leadership are generally transparent and observe effective communication to facilitate the integration of leaders and staff members.
Transactional leadership
In transactional leadership, organizational leaders observe a transparent chain of command in the delegation of responsibilities and powers. As they rise in the leadership chain of leadership, leaders become increasingly powerful in affecting the performance of their duties. In this leadership style, achievements are well appreciated and rewarded, while bad practice is punished as appropriate.
Autocratic leadership
In autocratic leadership, all aspects of transactional leadership are greatly amplified. Leaders are more powerful and have much more control and power over their subordinates. The power is centralized in private offices and employees have limited opportunities to offer their opinion.
Laissez-faire leadership
In the laissez-faire leadership style, there is little administration in the entire leadership structure, since the subordinates fulfill their responsibilities as they wish. This flexibility is commonly associated with workplaces where employees have a lot of experience and can monitor their performance, quality control and high work standards.
Situational Leadership Style
As the name implies, situational leadership is commonly used in cases where different workplace conditions require the application of different leadership styles. In that case, leaders employ an appropriate leadership approach to ensure optimal performance in the workplace.
While some leadership styles work better than others, ultimately, you must decide which style best suits your needs and your work environment.