Group items tagged

The autocratic style is one in which a single person takes control and makes decisions, directing others in his or her chosen course of action. Lewin’s team found that this was the most unsatisfactory leadership style with the youth groups. In a democratic leadership style, one person takes control but is open to group input, often allowing the group to make decisions and collectively assign tasks. This leader guides rather than directs. This was the most popular leadership style in the youth groups and garnered the greatest positive response. With the laissez-faire approach, the person in charge stepped back and did nothing. He or she provided no direction or guidance. The group was disorganized and unproductive.

Modern leadership traits and skills Since the advancement of situational leadership, a number of other leadership styles have been identified. Peter Economy, also known as "The Leadership Guy," recently listed the qualities of today's best leadership in an Inc.com article. He encourages embodiment of these merits at all times to achieve phenomenal results. They are: Decisiveness Awareness Focus Accountability Empathy Confidence Optimism Honesty Inspiration

1. Ability to deal with ambiguity Low need for control Openness to Experience (one of the Big 5 personality traits) Moderate perfectionism High Stability (low anxiety) Project management skills Ability to use social media Optimism

2. The capacity to foster engagement An understanding of how to motivate others Ability to foster a shared purpose and vision An understanding of human needs Interpersonal effectiveness Ability to self-regulate Empathy

3. The capacity to learn Ability to research and learn Being thoroughly on top of one’s subject area Wide and accessible networks Able to share with others Knowledge management skills The ability to foster collaborative learning

The Coaching Style or “Try this” develops people for the future and builds on developing others, empathy and self-awareness. This approach helps employees improve performance and develop long-term strengths. A school building leader program or school leadership conference would be in line with this leadership style.

Leaders Grow, Through Adversity, Humility and Empathy

Lincoln was generous in crediting others with success; his papers are filled with notes complimenting others. FDR’s capacity to inspire and encourage his staff and those around him made it possible for them to carry on when the challenges of the Depression weighed heavily on them. “He didn’t solve their problems,” but cheered up the team so they could continue to forge ahead, Goodwin said.

Leaders Communicate Simply and Directly Through Stories