There are many differing views on leadership styles.  What differentiates styles is the degree to which one directs rather than involves.  There are 5 key styles of leadership:

1. Telling or the just do it style which is good to use in times of crisis or emergency.
2. Telling and selling where you tell what needs to happen and why.  It is a good style to use when significant change is needed.
3. Consultation where you want ideas and views but retain the final decision making authority.  This is used significantly by public bodies who need to formally consult with all stakeholders.
4. Participation where a group or team takes collective responsibility for the problem and decisions.
5. Empowerment where you state the outcome you want and leave it to one or more people to work out how to achieve it.  Works well with highly skilled and experienced people.

We all have our preferred style.  What’s your preferred style and what are the benefits and drawbacks of it?

Duncan Brodie of Goals and Achievements helps highly effective professionals to become great leaders and managers.  You can sign up for his free audio e-course here

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