Coaching Leaders
In
the Coaching Leadership Style the leader focuses on helping others in
their personal development, and in their job-related activities. The
coaching leader aids others to get up to speed by working closely with
them to make sure they have the knowledge and tools to be successful.
This situational leadership style works best when the employee already
understands their weaknesses, and is receptive to improvement
suggestions or ideas.
Pacesetting Leaders
When
employees are self-motivated and highly skilled, the Pacesetting
Leadership Style is extremely effective. The pacesetting leader sets
very high performance standards for themselves and the group. They
exemplify the behaviors they are seeking from other members of the
group. This leadership style needs to be used sparingly since workers
can often “burn out” due to the demanding pace of this style.
Democratic Leaders
The
Democratic Leadership Style gives members of the work group a vote, or a
say, in nearly every decision the team makes. When used effectively,
the democratic leader builds flexibility and responsibility. They can
help identify new ways to do things with fresh ideas. Be careful with
this style, however, because the level of involvement required by this
approach, as well as the decision-making process, can be very time
consuming.
Affiliative Leaders
The
Affiliative Leadership Style is most effective in situations where
morale is low or teambuilding is needed. This leader is easily
recognized by their theme of “employee first.” Employees can expect
much praise from this style; unfortunately, poor performance may also go
without correction.
Authoritative Leaders
If
your business seems to be drifting aimlessly, then the Authoritative
Leadership Style can be very effective in this type of situation. The
authoritative leader is an expert in dealing with the problems or
challenges at hand, and can clearly identify goals that will lead to
success. This leader also allows employees to figure out the best way
to achieve those goals.
Coercive Leaders
The
Coercive Leadership Style should be used with caution because it’s
based on the concept of “command and control,” which usually causes a
decrease in motivation among those interacting with this type of
manager. The coercive leader is most effective in situations where the
company or group requires a complete turnaround. It is also effective
during disasters, or dealing with under performing employees – usually
as a last resort.
