Leadership style is the manner and approach of providing direction, implementing plans, and motivating people. There are
many different leadership styles. Different styles work in different situations. A team will be a
stronger with a variety of different leadership styles. Some basic leadership styles are:-
- Authoritative: This type of (autocratic) leaders provide clear expectations of what needs to be done, when it should be done and how? Decision-making is less creative under this style. Autocrative leaders make decisions independently with little or no input from the rest of the group. However, this style is ideal when there is little time for group decision- making.
- Participative / Democratic: This style is based on 'Let us work together' philosophy. This is considered as most effective way of leadership style as the democratic leaders welcome the ideas / suggestions of their subordinates / group members. Here group members are motivated to participate and be creative.
- Delegative / Free-rein: Here the leader allows the employees to make the decisions. However, the leader is still responsible for the decisions that are made. This is used when employees are able to analyze the situation and determine what needs to be done and how to do it. Free-rein (also called as 'Laissez Faire') is non-interference in the affairs of others. This style can be effective in situations where group members are highly qualified in an area of expertise.