Leadership
Yvonne Harvey, Contributor

The success of management is very much dependent on the ability to lead. Good day to you all. Our lesson today will focus on leadership styles and their impact. At the end of the lesson, you should be able to outline the essential characteristics of a good leader and differentiate among the various leadership styles.

The leader may be described as an individual who selects certain strategies which are aimed at getting the work done, so that the goals of the organisation may be met. Leadership is referred to as the motivating of people towards the goals of an organisation. It is carried out in various ways.

The way in which a person leads is known as his/her leadership style. Different types of leaders practise different styles. Some leaders use a combination of styles. However, before looking at the various styles of leadership, we will consider some of the qualities of a good leader. Traditionally, it was believed that a good leader should possess certain characteristics or traits. Some of these are listed below:

I am sure you can think of other desirable qualities. As you think of them, add them to the list above. Keep in mind, however, that no one person will possess all the qualities, but a good leader will exhibit most of them.

There are four known and accepted styles of leadership. Let us look at each of them in terms of description and the effects of each type:

1. The autocratic/authoritarian style

The persons who use this style are strict leaders who, as the sole decision-makers, have full control in the decision-making process. Thus, those who will be affected by a decision are not involved in the decision-making and their opinions are not taken into consideration.

Such a leader sees himself as an expert, an authority on all matters, and expects persons to carry out the required tasks.

Subordinates usually do as these leaders say because of fear that they will be punished in some way. Examples of punishment vary from demotion to suspension or dismissal.

Effects

a) Work is most often completed, just as the leader specified.

b) Employee input, initiative and innovation are stifled, therefore, bad interpersonal relationships develop.

c) Employees are not motivated to do their jobs well. This may ultimately result in rapid turnover in the organisation.

2. The laissez-faire/free reign style

Laissez-faire is French for 'let them do it'. Workers are made aware of what they have to do, but the leader stands back and allows them to plan their work and take their own decisions, as far as possible. Managers give little or no direction to workers.

Thus, there is minimum supervision and workers are expected to use their own initiative in achieving certain objectives.

This style is normally practised in creative productions and services, such as the graphic departments of advertising agencies.

Effects

a) Production benefits from a variety of ideas.

b) Employers often become lazy and inefficient if left too much on their own.

3. The democratic/participative style

Workers prefer this style as it strikes the middle ground. The leader does not dominate and those most likely to be affected by a decision are consulted before the decision is made. Note that the leader reserves the right not to accept a majority vote. This leader ensures that everybody receives fair treatment.

Effects

a) Workers become interested and are encouraged to take part in decisions.

b) Workers are comfortable in their working environment because of the interchange of ideas and variety of opinions, therefore, efficiency of results.

c) It tends to slow down the decision-making process and is thus seen as inefficient in this respect.

4. The charismatic style

This leader is one who is able to lead simply by reason of his/her outstanding skills, personality or character. Such a leader is said to lead from the front by inspiring others through skill, personality or character.

Effects

a) Efficiency can be achieved.

b) Pleasant personalities or characters may 'mask' inefficiency.

What is the best style? Who is the best leader?

There is no one style that can be worked in all situations. Our conclusion, therefore, is that the best leader is one who is flexible, one who can adapt to changing circumstances, that is, to change the styles as the circumstances dictate. In emergencies, the autocratic method is most effective. Where a high degree of expertise is needed, the free reign style might be best. It is generally assumed, however, that the democratic style is best to yield long-term efficiency and productivity. Whatever the style, under a good leader, people will work willingly and well and ultimately, profits will rise.

Now for your homework:

a) i) Who is a leader?

ii) Define the term 'leadership style'.

b) i) State four qualities that a good leader should possess.

ii) Give three positive effects of good leadership.

c) Distinguish between democratic and authoritarian leadership.

d) List one advantage of each style mentioned in (c) above.

e) Name and describe one other leadership style besides the ones mentioned in (c) above.

Yvonne Harvey teaches at Glenmuir High School.