Which Leadership Style Works Best?
When it comes to “Which Leadership Style Works Best”, there is no correct answer. As a leader, you must constantly adapt to your environment which impacts the style of leadership you may use. I discuss three different styles of leadership and when they are most applicable.
Transformational Style
A transformational style is often the leadership style that works best. This leadership style allows employees to complete tasks however they prefer. More often than not, people respond well to this style, and a positive work environment is created.
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Most people enjoy working on projects in their own way. Employees are most productive when they can complete a job in the way that works best for them, rather than the way that works best for you. You should also empower and help employees to accomplish their tasks.
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This being said, it is still important and helpful to be clear about what jobs need to be completed and what your expectations are. This leadership style is not effective if employees do not have much experience and need a more hands-on leader.
Authoritative Style
In my experience, it is rare that an authoritative leadership style works best. This leadership style consists of strict rules and heavy oversight. You tell people exactly what to do and how to do it.
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This leadership style runs into problems when a manager starts to micromanage because they want the job done a specific way. Authoritarian leadership can also stifle employees’ creativity and could create a hostile work environment for their employees.
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However, this leadership style can come in handy with inexperienced workers who need guidance and work well when they are given clear instructions to follow. This style of leadership streamlines the decision-making process as well.
Delegating Style
This leadership style works well with employees who are most effective when they work independently, but this style can lead to low productivity. You let the employees work on what they want, how they want.
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Many issues can come about with this leadership style. Decisions can take a significant amount of time because everyone is allowed to weigh in. There can also be confusion and a lack of a cohesive goal if employees do not communicate with each other.
While there is no “right” answer in terms of leadership styles, it is still important to know which leadership style works best with your various employees. You may have to use a mix of these styles when you have many employees who work differently.
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