What comes to mind when you hear the word “leader”? For each of us, this answer will vary based on our current needs, wants and past experience. Some view leaders positively and some negatively… although I always like to look at the negative experiences as a “here’s what not to do”. In either case, in a work environment, leaders are here to show, assist, and teach. It’s essential to have positive leadership which comes in several different styles, so let’s take a look at four top leadership styles to help you determine what leadership style is yours. 

Visionary

Visionary leaders have a compelling vision for their business. They see beyond the mundane challenges of the day as they are always looking at the future. They tend to be very inspirational to those around them, keeping everyone on track while empowering their employees with the tools to get there. Top qualities of a visionary leader include: being inspirational, open-minded, imaginative, persistent, collaborative, magnetic, and optimistic.

Laissez-Faire

Lasissez-Faire leaders are very hands-off. They provide minimal direction and supervision. This style gives complete control, but not everyone works well in this style of leadership, which can result in performance and motivation issues with employees. Top qualities of a laissez-faire leader include: being resourceful, relaxed, and confident.

Servant

Servant leaders love to help others. They focus on their teams’ needs before their own. This style of leadership gives their employees the ability to be heard as well as the support they need to meet their work and personal goals. Top qualities of servant leaders include: listening, empathy, awareness, and community building.

Affiliative

Affiliative leaders promote harmony among his or her employees. They are more invested in the value of people vs. reaching goals. This style of leadership builds strong emotional bonds that promote employee loyalty. This style works best with teams that are looking to build trust and communication. It does not work well with organizations that need structure or direction. Top qualities of affiliative leaders include: empathy, the flexibility of thinking, persistence, and positivity.

Alright which one describes “you”? Perhaps a few of them? It’s not uncommon to portray a few of these various styles. In fact, maybe you’re a bit Laissez-Faire with a few of your long-term employees, but more Servant based when it comes to working with newbies. Again, if this is the case, it’s totally normal! In fact, I would encourage you to break out of your normal and dip into another leadership style… and we can help with that!

Log into your p1learning.com account and watch our course series on “Becoming a Great Leader”, “Mistakes Leaders Make”, “DISC Leading Skills”, and “Strategic Leadership”. Not a P1 Learning subscriber? Register for a 7-day demo, here.

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