Leaders have perspectives and values that vary; hence when it comes to getting things done, they do so differently. A good management style is one that is aimed at getting the best out of the employees. Below is a list of different influential styles a leader may choose to adopt:

1. Autocratic Management

This influential management style is considered the most controlling. In this case, the leader has complete command and hold over their employees, who are not allowed to voice their views. The employees are also not allowed to criticize how the leader does his or her work. They should follow instructions without asking questions or raising objections. One advantage of this type of management style is that it leads to speedy decision-making.

On the flip side, employees are hugely demotivated and reluctant to work, leading to increased incidences of absenteeism and high staff turnover.

2. The Laissez Faire Management

This style may be referred to as the boss-less type of management. The leader has total trust in his/her skilled employees. His or her focus is on the rational and intellectual part of the work and does not concern himself with general management. The employees are encouraged to voice their views and suggestions, which in their opinion are for the best interests of the organization. This influential management style is viable only if the employees are skilled enough, loyal, intelligent, and experienced.

3. Democratic Management

This management style may also be referred to as participative. The management encourages employees to play significant roles in making decisions that concern the organization. In this type of management style, the management only guides employees on what to do and how to do it. The employees, in turn, put their best suggestions and experience on the table.

This is a highly influential management style, especially because it motivates and satisfies employees. It also creates a conducive working environment besides promoting creativity. The only drawback is that decision making can be a time-consuming process.

4. Bureaucratic Management

To understand this type of management, let’s look at what bureaucracy is all about. It is the extensive use of rules and regulations to accomplish specific tasks. In bureaucratic management style, both the management and employees are required to adhere to the set rules and policies strictly. During employee appraisals and promotions, priority is given to employees who have diligently followed the rules of the organization. This style works best where safe working conditions are a prerequisite. It, however, does not leave room for employees’ creativity.

5. Delegating

To delegate is to assign specific duties to specific people. When employees are assigned specific tasks, they are held accountable for the results they achieve after completing the delegated tasks. There are, however, two major drawbacks arising from this style of management. First, the team may lose focus since they are given little or no direction. Second, it results in a lack of uniformity in the achievement of goals since the inputs of employees vary.

6. Authoritative Management

There are times when a leader must take charge and act like the leader he or she is, especially in environments where employees are laid back and ineffective. If you are a new manager and you want to organize the work environment and exert your authority as a leader, you may need to wear your authoritative hat. However, as you do this, be kind and friendly to the employees, so they don’t feel like you are unfairly targeting them. Issuing firm, uncompromising directives with a smile is possible.

7. Result Based Management

In this management style, the manager’s focus is solely on results. He does not concern himself with the methods as long as the job gets done as efficiently as possible. There are no set rules on how things should be done. If an employee comes up with a more effective method, the manager is more than happy to comply. This type of management is ideal for small organizations that are just starting. All resources are concentrated on key tasks, and employees are motivated to be the best they can be.

8. Collaborative Management Style

In collaborative management, the manager creates an environment where employees feel their opinions matter. One-word responses like ‘yes’ and ‘no’ are not encouraged. Instead, the manager prods the employees to explain themselves, so their feedback makes sense. Employees are also encouraged to be creative. Collaborative management is more about influence than power. With the help of behavioural assessments and management, it creates strong relationships between employees and management.

Being a manager is an exciting job. However, your management style can build or wreck an organization. A good leader should adopt a management style that brings out the best in people and encourages productivity. The goal should be to create a conducive work environment where everyone works as a team to foster the organization’s goals. In management, there is no one-size-fits-all style. Work with a style that brings out the best in you, and in the employees under your care.