Comparing Leadership Models

Leadership Models

Leadership is the ability to influence subordinates and followers to do a certain task which they otherwise will not do. Leadership is connected with the ability of leaders to motivate followers to achieve a shared vision. Leaders earn the respect of their subordinates and assert their influence through their charisma, capability, skills or their vision. Over the years various leadership approaches have emerged and still, multiple models of leadership are being exercised as discussed in the discussion. Among many other, most practiced leadership styles are authoritarian or autocratic leadership, democratic leadership, and Laissez-fair leadership. The discussion thoroughly discussed the democratic leadership style. The democratic leadership style is participative in its nature where the opinion of followers and subordinates is taken on serious matters but the final decision rests with the leader. On the other hand, authoritarian leadership does not provide any chance for followers to express their opinion. They have to listen and follow the decision made by the leader. In contrast to that, Laissez-Faire leaders empower their subordinates to make their decisions on their own. All the three leadership styles have their pros and cons as the authoritarian leadership is quick in making decisions and is most suitable for conditions where quick response is required like in military conditions. In contrast to it, Laisses-faire does not have much involvement of leadership and all authority rests with subordinates, it empowers employees yet lacks the sense of direction as lead by a leader. Democratic leadership is in the medium of two extremes as it empowers the employees by taking their suggestions, but the final decision is made by the leader. All these leadership styles are suitable for certain situations and the ideal type of leadership is a contingency leadership style which determines the leadership approach as per the need of the hour (Sarros, 2008).

References

Sarros, J. C., & Cooper, B. (2008). Building a Climate for InnovationThrough Transformational Leadership and Organizational Culture. Journal of Leadership & Organizational Studies, 145-158.