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If you have never been in a leadership role, it can be hard to imagine what your leadership style may be.
If you have recently been promoted or have landed a new job, you are probably wondering how to handle your new management position.
The mark of a great leader is someone who can motivate others to perform well and achieve their full potential.
Most people fall into one of the three following different leadership styles:
1. Authoritarian Leadership
Sometimes referred to as an autocratic leader, authoritarian leaders have very clear expectations about what, how, and when something needs to be done. This style is very much centered around being in command, and having complete control of those working under you.
Most authoritarian leaders do not value input from others, and like to keep themselves separate and independent from the rest of the workforce.
In many scenarios, this type of leadership is seen as too controlling and this approach does not tend to work well in the long run.
2. Participative Leadership
Otherwise known as democratic leadership, it is widely thought of as the most effective leadership style. Those who follow this style offer guidance and support to their team and they listen to input.
A democratic leader may encourage their team to talk about decisions and goals. But they still reserve the right to making the final decision.
The benefits of this style are that the team is left feeling valued and engaged, therefore more motivated.
3. Delegative Leadership
This relaxed type of leadership is thought to be the least productive. As a leader, little guidance is given, and decisions are left to that of the team.
This leadership style does have its place where a group of experts need to reach a decision together. However, in other scenarios it can lead to loss of job definition, and falling motivation.
What Is Your Style?
Some people fall naturally into one of these leadership styles. However, for others, they need to learn how to lead.
Take some time to assess your own personal strengths and weaknesses, what kind of personality you have, and how you have behaved in leadership situations away from the workplace.
Your leadership style should suit your personality and also the needs of your organization.
Some people find it difficult to adopt the position of ‘the boss’. Remember that being the leader and how you choose to act during this time is just a temporary decision.
Try to separate your relationship with colleagues as business and personal so that you are not influenced in any decisions.
A great leader is able to see the bigger picture, and will draw on different elements of these three styles. Be open to different approaches as the situation requires it.
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