As leaders we struggle. Should I direct? Or suggest? Decide? Or involve others? Manage? Or lead?
The answer is: there is no one answer. The best leadership style is adaptive. To the people and the situation.
People with little experience or skill need the most direction. People with a high level of experience or skill need little direction. Collaborative decision-making can result in better solutions and more buy-in. But in urgent situations there isn’t time to solicit broad input. Autocratic decision-making may be more effective. Highly complex situations require analysis and organization – traits of strong management. Highly volatile situations require vision and communications – traits of strong leadership.
Of course, every leader has his or her own style. And needs to be true to that style. Yet the best leaders also know when and how to adapt.
Your thoughts?
Michael
How Adaptive is Your Leadership Style?
