apply these to different people and situations:
There are 4 main Leadership styles which are
Autocratic
Bureaucratic
Democratic
And Laissez-faire
Autocratic:
This style is also known as the classic approach in which it rations as much power and decision-
making authority as possible. This style does not consult employees or allow them to give any
input. Employees are expected to obey orders without receiving any explanations. Autocratic
leaders do not trust their employees and rely on threats and punishments to influence them
they believe that creating a structured set of rewards and punishments will create a
motivational environment.
Beurocratic:
This style of management is where the leader ‘Manages by the book’ everything must be done by
procedure and policy, if the book doesn’t cover it they then refer to the next level of
management above them.
Democratic:
This style is also known as the participative style in which encourages employees to be a part of
the decision-making. They keep employees informed about everything that affects their work
and share decision-making, problem solving and responsibility’s. This style requires the leader to
be a coach who has the final say but gathers all information from the staff before deciding.
Laissez-Faire:
Known as the ‘Hands off’ approach this style provides very little or no direction and gives
employees as much freedom as possible. This type of leader gives employees the power and full
authority to determine goals, make decisions and resolve problems on their own.
Factors that can influence the leadership style
The 4 main factors which can influence the style of leadership used are
1. The personal background-Personality, knowledge, values, ethics and experiences
2. The employees- what kind of style would your employee respond to best
3. The company- The company’s values, ethics and concerns will all influence how a
manager will act
4. The situation - leadership style also depends on each situation. The nature of task,
time constraint, environment and other external forces can also influence like if for
, instance there are target dates, the leader can choose an approach that will fit the
need to meet the timeline.
Leadership theory
Abraham Maslow in 1943 developed a theory on human motivation which he named
“The Hierarchy of Needs Pyramid”
Physiological needs:
Physiological needs are the physical requirements for human survival. If these requirements
are not met, the human body cannot function properly and will ultimately fail. Physiological
needs are thought to be the most important; they should be met first. This is the first and
basic need on the hierarchy of needs. Without them, the other needs cannot follow up.
The Physiological needs are:
Air (Breathing)
Water
Food
Sexual instinct
Sleep
Clothing
Shelter
Safety
Safety and Security needs are:
Personal security
Financial security
Health and well-being
Safety needs against accidents and illness.