A good business prospers under the leadership of its superiors. However, there is no universal leadership style. Companies operate differently from one another, therefore making specific leadership styles more successful than others. It is essential to utilize a style that is most beneficial for your organization and your team. Below you kind find some of the most successful styles of leadership as well as their advantages and disadvantages.
Transformative Leadership
Transformative leaders are continually transforming their teams to improve. This type of leader creates a shared vision and work together to achieve that vision. St. Thomas University describes this leader as “quiet leaders.” Often they lead by example and inspire others to put their best foot forward.
With this leadership style, however, playing favorites can be a difficult task to avoid. In pursuit of a goal, there will be those who are more motivated in reaching a goal, thus making them more favorable to any other member.
Democratic Leadership
Democratic leaders like to take their team members thoughts and opinions into account during the decision-making process. However, the leader is the person who makes the final decision. Often this type of leadership encourages collaborative teamwork but can lengthen the decision-making process
Charismatic Leadership
Leaders who have a charismatic leadership, are highly skilled communicators. They are able to communicate on a deeper and more emotional level when compared to other leaders. These leaders have the ability to inspire and motivate is one of the most beneficial aspects of this style.
The one downside, however, is that charismatic leaders, sometimes believe that they believe in themselves more than the team and think that as a leader they can do no harm.
Laissez-Faire Leadership
A Laissez-Faire leader can be considered very hands off. Often, team members are given a lot of freedom to make their own decisions. These leaders do not micromanage. They are there for support when needed but are passive. This type of leadership often works best when a leader has a lot of trust in their team members and is aware of their capabilities. According to Toolshero.com, one of the biggest pitfalls is the lack of structure resulting in a decrease in motivation.
Servant Leadership
Servant leaders put their team members before their own needs. They constantly are working hard with their team members to help their team succeed in their goals. These types of leaders help to instill a sense of community within the team, which then produces a higher level of engagement.
The one downside to this style of leadership is that the leader may get too caught up in making the team member happy rather than focusing on what is best for the organization.
As you consider each leadership style and their pros and cons, find what is best what style is best for you, your team, and your organization as a whole. By doing so, it will ensure success for you as a leader.