Leadership style is personal. Many factors can influence your leadership style, such as your career experience (including mentoring), personality type, and so on. No matter what type you may be, it is important to self-evaluate and make sure that your leadership style is working not only for yourself but also for your employees. Leadership can make or break a business, so it’s crucial that your technique is practical, supportive, and aligns with your goals.
Not sure what leadership style you possess? Here are four of the most common leadership styles and their descriptions to help you identify yours:
Direct
Direct leadership is typically straightforward, which some people perceive as rigid. It uses clear language and instruction to ensure that tasks are delegated to specific employees while using transparent rules and timelines. With direct leadership, employees know what is expected of them and that they will be held accountable for their given tasks.
If you promote a highly structured work environment, continuously check in with employees’ progress, and strongly assert your authority, you may be using the direct leadership style.
Coach
With the coaching leadership style, employees and employers have a closely connected relationship that promotes constant growth. Coaching leadership often means working with your employees to get the necessary tasks done while also keeping their work preferences in mind. Employees are often encouraged to ask questions and openly communicate while working under coaching leadership.
If you get to know your employees personally, promote questions and communication, and nurture the idea of employee independence, you may be using the coaching leadership style.
Support
The supportive leadership style is one where employees are lead in an emotional and empathetic way. Instead of micromanaging employees, supportive leaders make sure that employees receive all of the tools they need to work independently and efficiently.
If you create a workplace where employees can work well independently and encourage their open communication with you, you may be using a supportive leadership style.
Delegate
Much like the supportive leadership style, the delegating leadership style strongly encourages independent work from employees. However, the delegating style is slightly different in that it allows employees also to be decision-makers in their work, for which they will be held accountable.
If you like assigning tasks to your employees and handing the responsibility off to them to complete their work independently, you may be using the delegating leadership style.
One of the most important aspects of running a successful business is implementing the right leadership style. Need more tips on how to develop into a respectable and influential leader in your organization? Accelerated Results offers business consulting in Seattle and the surrounding areas. Schedule a consultation with us today!
