Often, different workspaces demand a different leadership style, and great leaders typically combine effectively the characteristics of many different leadership styles.
There are numerous styles of leadership. They aren’t inherently good or bad—they’re just different. They all have their benefits and drawbacks, as well as their appropriate uses in certain scenarios.
A leader is somebody who influences or guides other people through their own actions and behaviours. That might be someone who’s the designated head of a department, business or a section within it. Leaders can also exist without the associated power that comes from a senior position having a personality which encourages others to follow.
There are eight main types of leadership used in business today
1. Transactional Leadership
Transactional leadership derives from the notion that employment and specific projects are a transaction. When an employee accepts a job, he agrees to “obey” the leader and complete the tasks and duties as assigned and will be compensated in exchange for her efforts. Roles are well-defined, and people who are ambitious and respond to rewards are likely to do well under this kind of leadership.
2. Laissez-faire Leadership
Laissez-faire leaders provide the necessary tools and resources to staff, but then step back and let their team members make decisions, solve problems, and get their work accomplished—without having to worry about the leader obsessively supervising their every move.
3. Transformational Leadership
The transformational leadership style focuses on clear communication, goal setting and employee motivation. However, instead of placing the majority of the energy into each employee’s individual goals, the transformational leader is driven by a commitment to organisational objectives.
4. Autocratic Leadership
Also called the authoritarian style of leadership, this type of leader is someone who is focused almost entirely on results and efficiency. They often make decisions alone or with a small, trusted group and expect employees to do exactly what they’re asked. It can be helpful to think of these types of leaders as military commanders.
5. Servant Leadership
Servant leaders operate with this standard motto: Serve first and lead second. Rather than thinking about how they can inspire people to follow their lead, they channel the majority of their energy into finding ways that they can help others. They prioritise the needs of other people above their own.
6. Democratic Leadership
A democratic leader is someone who asks for input and considers feedback from their team before making a decision. Because team members feel their voice is heard and their contributions matter, a democratic leadership style is often credited with fostering higher levels of employee engagement and workplace satisfaction.
7. Charismatic Leadership
Charismatic leaders have magnetic personalities, as well as a lot of conviction to achieve their objectives. Rather than encouraging behaviours through strict instructions, these leaders use eloquent communication and persuasion to unite a team around a cause. They’re able to clearly articulate their vision and get others excited about that same goal.
8. Eco-leadership / Responsible leadership
A new type of leadership has begun emerging in the 21st century. Eco or Responsible leaders are strategic, driven leaders who understand that their business doesn’t operate in a vacuum and the decisions they make can impact both communities and the environment. As such, these leaders consider the impact in the wider environment as part of their decision-making process. They usually take a collaborative approach and keep a community focus.
Are you uncertain what leadership style you have, or whether the style you have adopted best matches your strengths?
We in the Xseed Lead team can help you recognise your capabilities and preferred leadership style further, building off your strengths to gain confidence and improve performance. Contact us to book a free confidential discussion on your goals.
Author Bio
Deborah Knight is the founder of Xsead Lead with a background in organisational and individual leadership and executive coaching.
As a coach, Deborah aims to create an inclusive and respectful space where individuals and organisations can do the work necessary for growth and change. She is also passionate about helping women be valued for themselves while also contributing and being successful.
Apart from her company which she is deeply passionate about, Deborah also loves bushwalking, reading, travelling, and learning new things.
For any coaching or organisational support enquiries Deborah can be contacted via email: info@xseedlead.com.au or via her company website which is www.xseedlead.com.au.
