There are a number of different leadership styles, but they can be placed in different categories. In addition to understanding the meaning of each one, you need to understand the differences and the advantages and disadvantages of each.
Authoritarian Leadership
This is one of the oldest styles of leadership. These leaders have expectations, and they state the desired outcome. The leader is always in charge, and everyone looks to this person to find out what to do. This style sacrifices creativity and collaboration because there is little input requested or required. This type of leadership works when team members need the guidelines told to them.
The advantages are fewer mistakes, a clear chain of command, and time making decisions can be reduced. The disadvantages are that there is little room for creativity or collaboration. The work is less fulfilling, and there is usually a higher turnover rate.
Participative Leadership
This type of leadership allows team members to feel included and motivated. There is a lot of creativity and collaboration, and the leader listens to what everyone has to say. This can increase employee motivation and job satisfaction. It also encourages creativity, and it leads to strong teams.
The disadvantages are that the process can take a lot of time, and there can be failures in communication. In addition, if the employees aren’t well trained, they may make poor decisions.
Delegative Leadership
Another name for this style is laissez faire leadership, and it focuses on delegating to the teams. If the team is made up of skilled and competent members, this can be very effective.
The advantages are that innovation and creativity are valued, and it promotes a positive work environment. However, the command responsibility isn’t defined well, and it can be difficult for team members to adapt to change.
Transactional Leadership
This style of leadership is based on rewards, punishments, and other transactions. Leaders set clear goals, and the team members are rewarded for complying with them.
There is give and take, and they worry about routines, procedures, and more. This leads to specific goals that are measurable and achievable, and it increases productivity and motivation. However, it minimizes creativity and creates more followers.
Transformational Leadership
This type of leader inspires followers with a vision and empowers them to make it happen. It has a lower rate of turnover and leads to high morale. However, tasks can’t be completed without the agreement of the employees, and it can require more motivation and feedback.