Leadership style refers to the approach or methods that a leader uses to
motivate, guide, and manage their team. Different leadership styles can have
varying impacts on team dynamics, productivity, and overall success. Here are
some common leadership styles:
1. Autocratic: The leader makes decisions without consulting others and
expects strict obedience. This style can be effective in situations that
require quick decision-making, but it may lead to low employee morale
and creativity in the long run.
2. Democratic (Participative): Leaders involve team members in decision-
making processes, valuing their input. This style tends to increase
employee satisfaction and innovation but can be time-consuming.
3. Transformational: Focused on inspiring and motivating followers to
achieve their highest potential, often by creating a shared vision and
fostering personal development. These leaders encourage creativity and
challenge the status quo.
4. Transactional: Based on a system of rewards and penalties to manage
team performance. Leaders in this style focus on structure and routine,
with clear expectations and goals, making it effective for achieving short-
term tasks.
5. Laissez-faire: The leader takes a hands-off approach and allows team
members to make decisions. This style is effective when team members
are highly skilled and self-motivated, but it can lead to a lack of direction if
not properly managed.
6. Servant Leadership: The leader prioritizes the well-being of their team,
focusing on serving others and supporting their growth. This style builds
trust and loyalty but may be challenging when tough decisions need to be
made.
7. Situational: A flexible approach where the leader adjusts their style
based on the situation or the needs of the team. This style allows for
adaptability but requires a keen understanding of various leadership
approaches.
Each style has its strengths and weaknesses, and effective leaders often blend
elements from multiple styles depending on the situation. Does any of these
resonate with your experience or what you're aiming for in leadership?
Position-Based: Legitimate power is associated with a formal role or position
within an organization or group. It's not tied to personal characteristics or
relationships but to the formal authority granted by the organization.
Recognition of Authority: People comply with legitimate power because
they recognize the authority of the individual in their role, and there is an
expectation of respect for the established hierarchy.
Formal Expectations: The leader or individual with legitimate power has the
right to make decisions within the scope of their role and is typically expected to
manage certain tasks or situations.
Bound by Rules and Policies: The use of legitimate power is often
regulated by rules, policies, or organizational structures. It operates within the
framework of what is allowed by the position.
Structural Questions:
i. Identify the Leadership styles used by Sarah. (2 marks)
ii. Explain TWO (2) reasons why it is the leadership style you stated in (i). (4 marks)
A software development company is facing a challenging project deadline. The team is
feeling overwhelmed and demotivated due to the pressure and complexity of the task.
Sarah calls an emergency meeting to address the team's concerns. She greets
everyone with a warm smile, creating an immediate sense of camaraderie. Sarah
begins the meeting by acknowledging the challenges the team is facing. Instead of
focusing on the stress, she shares her vision for the project, emphasizing its importance
and potential impact on the company and its clients. Her passion is evident as she
speaks about how their work can make a difference. To motivate her team, Sarah
shares a personal story about a past project where they overcame similar obstacles.
She highlights the teamwork and creativity that led to their success, making the team
feel capable and valued. Sarah invites team members to share their ideas and
concerns, actively listening and responding with enthusiasm. This inclusive approach
fosters a sense of ownership and collaboration. She sets clear, achievable goals for the
project, coupled with a timeline. Sarah emphasizes the importance of every team
member's contribution, making them feel integral to the success of the project. At the
end of the meeting, Sarah promises to celebrate small wins along the way, reinforcing
the idea that every effort counts. She encourages the team to support one another and
reminds them of their capabilities.
Leadership Styles Used by Sarah:
Based on the description provided, Sarah exhibits the following leadership
styles:
1. **Transformational Leadership**
2. **Democratic (Participative) Leadership**
Reasons for Identifying These Leadership Styles:
1. Transformational Leadership:
- **Visionary and Inspirational Communication**: Sarah shares a clear vision for the
project, emphasizing its importance and impact, which is a hallmark of transformational
leadership. She inspires the team by connecting their work to a larger purpose,
motivating them to strive toward success beyond just meeting deadlines.
- **Passion and Motivation**: Sarah's enthusiasm and personal story of overcoming
past challenges inspire her team. This helps boost morale and encourages the team to
believe in their abilities to overcome current obstacles, which is a key characteristic of
transformational leadership—motivating followers to reach higher levels of
performance.
2. **Democratic (Participative) Leadership:**
- **Inclusive Approach**: Sarah invites team members to share their ideas and
concerns, actively listening to them and responding with enthusiasm. This participatory
approach, where everyone has a voice in the decision-making process, is characteristic
of democratic leadership.
- **Collaboration and Empowerment**: By involving the team in discussions and
making them feel integral to the success of the project, Sarah fosters a sense of
collaboration and ownership. This empowers the team, making them feel more engaged
and committed to the project.
These leadership styles combined create a supportive, motivating, and collaborative
environment, which is crucial for overcoming challenges and meeting tight deadlines in
a software development project.
