26 December 2017

Leadership styles that define the best bosses

Leadership is not so much about the leader's own needs, but about the needs of the people and the organisation he or she is leading., therefore, leadership styles must be adapted to the particular demands of the situation, the challenges to be faced and the people involved.

Daniel Goleman, in his book on leadership, describes six different styles. The fact is that the leadership styles should not be understood as an enumeration from which to choose the one that best suits one's habits and abilities; for in fact, The most effective leaders can move between several of these styles, adopting the one that meets the needs of the moment, also known as situational leadership.

Among the leadership styles that Goleman recognises and that can be part of a leader's repertoire are the following:

However, this list is completed by new styles in which certain characteristics stand out from the rest, such as, for example, the servant leader or prestige leadership.

Dominance and prestige, two styles of leadership with almost opposite approaches

Dominion and prestige are two distinct routes to ascending to influential leadership positions within an organisation. Both leadership styles can be easily recognised, since:

A dominance strategy requires individuals to be more assertive, controlling, decisive, and self-assured in achieving their goals.. Individuals pursuing this strategy often coerce or induce psychological fear among other group members to achieve objectives, without concern for the consequences their actions and decisions may have on others.
A prestige strategy achieves greater social consideration. since those who distinguish themselves by this leadership style, not only do they succeed in matters within their direct remit, but they also share knowledge or skills that are of great value to other group members. In return, they receive their respect and admiration, which leads them to achieve positions of greater responsibility and higher rank in the company hierarchy.

Steve Jobs or Donald Trump, leaders described as authoritarian, could fit the definition of a dominant strategy. For their part, Warren Buffett and John Mackey would fit into a democratic leadership style (like Walt Disney) or a servant leadership style (like Martin Luther King), respectively, in both cases applying a prestige strategy..

However, they have all acted as visionary, helmsman, coach or affiliative leaders at some point. For example, when faced with uncertainty, individuals prefer a leader who is self-assured and decisive in achieving their goals, a dominant and authoritarian leader; but, If the goal is to empower employees, rather than imposing one's own vision, the team's vision must be fostered., for example, by encouraging your team members to actively discuss their ideas and to synthesise their contributions into a coherent strategy.

For a prestigious leader, it is just as important to speak as it is to listen to employees, as this is how this leadership style manages to build a safe environment. where team members feel respected and free to innovate and generate creative solutions. In this sense, leading by prestige often means to lead in a more subtle way.

Does your organisation's culture stand out for fostering relatively egalitarian relationships? Which leadership style has helped you achieve better results?