Leadership Methods

Leadership is a key aspect of management. As a manager, one must direct subordinates and help them grow, in addition to all other managerial duties. This is not as easy as it may seem. Different people need different types of leadership, and even the same people may need different types of leadership in different areas and at different stages in development. A manager must evaluate employees and determine what leadership style to use with each person, when to use it, and vary the leadership style as the person grows.

Management styles are typically defined by three main types: autocratic, democratic, and delegative. These styles are sometimes broken down into smaller categories, creating as many as ten different leadership styles. Each style has pros and cons and is effective in certain aspects, while problematic in others. Flexible leaders use a combination of all three main styles, and possibly others depending on the situation and the person they are dealing with.

The first leadership style is the autocratic style. In this style, the manager directs the employee on exactly what to do and how to do it. There is little room for discussion when using an autocratic leadership style. Decisions are made by the managers without input from other group members and managers work closely with employees to ensure things are done precisely as directed. Traditionally the autocratic style was used to evoke fear in employees, with the belief that motivation comes from a structured set of rewards and punishments. Some autocratic managers believe people are inherently lazy and the only way to achieve maximum productivity from employees is to control and issue threats.

Although using an autocratic management style may seem dictatorial, it is actually very valuable, even crucial in some cases. When the timeframe to achieve goals is short, or when the stakes are high, an autocratic style might be most effective. Also, certain professions may use an autocratic...