Leadership Styles 

When it comes to running a business or being part of a team, there is nothing more important than strong leadership.

You need someone who is smart, dependable, and able to choose the right course of action at the right time. Having someone who is ill qualified or does not have the raw talent to be a leader can significantly hurt your business in a multitude of ways, from simple bad decision making to outright incompetence. 

Different types of leaders  

Like businesses themselves, not all leaders are the same. In your mind when you think of a leader, you most likely think of a big strong presence who has all the answers, when in actuality this is just one of many different types. These are some of the most common types of leaders you can find: 

Autocratic – This leader normally makes decisions by themselves with little to no input from others and little room for compromise, this is normally not a very successful style of leadership and is one that can end with discord in the workplace. 

Democratic – This leader often takes heavy involvement from the team, often taking input from the team into consideration during the decision-making process. This is normally a fairly successful leadership style which can bring together the workplace and raise moral, making each person feel respected. 

Servant – This leader will do everything to put their team first. Unlike democratic leaders who take input from the team, the servant will prioritize the well-being and development of team members over most things. While this is incredibly helpful to raise morale, it can reduce efficiency in the workplace. 

Choosing the right style of leadership 

Choosing the appropriate leadership style demands a thorough consideration of several factors, including experience, leadership approach, and the workplace atmosphere they cultivate. Assessing your team’s composition is pivotal; for instance, if they prefer hands-on guidance, selecting a bold, directive leader like an autocrat might be optimal. 

It’s essential not only to evaluate the team as a whole but also to understand individual team members and their requirements. Questions such as whether some excel with autonomy while others seek more guidance are crucial. Ultimately, you need a leader who can cater to both collective needs and individual preferences. 

Developing leadership skills  

Developing appropriate leadership skills is a key for guiding teams effectively in their effort to reaching organizational goals. Here are some key tips to enhance your leadership abilities and become an influential leader within your organization: 

Continuous Learning: Embrace a growth mindset and commit to lifelong learning. Stay updated on leadership trends, theories, and best practices through books, courses, workshops, and mentorship programmes. 

Self-awareness: Understand your strengths, weaknesses, and leadership style. Seek feedback from peers, mentors, and team members to gain insights into areas for improvement and refine your approach accordingly. 

Effective Communication: Master the art of clear and empathetic communication. Listen actively, express ideas articulately, and provide constructive feedback to foster open dialogue and collaboration within your team. 

Empathy and Emotional Intelligence: Cultivate empathy and emotional intelligence to connect with team members on a personal level. Show genuine concern for their well-being, understand their perspectives, and tailor your leadership approach to support their individual needs. 

Adaptability and Flexibility: Stay adaptable and flexible in response to changing circumstances and evolving team dynamics. Embrace innovation, encourage creativity, and be willing to adjust your leadership style to meet the needs of your team and organization. 

Choosing the right leadership style is an ongoing and dynamic process. It requires a deep understanding of your team, the work environment, and your own leadership strengths. It is not a decision to be made overnight, think long and hard because you or the person you choose will be driving your team to the future.