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Leadership Styles and Skills

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In what ways are the executives' leadership styles the same and how are they different. Expound on your analysis.

In consideration of your research results, what leadership style(s) are most effective? Which are most affective? Explain your rationale.

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This post is comprised of a Word document of over 1200 words and includes a chart comparing and contrasting the six most common leadership styles. The student should be able to understand the difference between transformational and transactional leadership and how each of style fits into one of those categories.

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Some experts say there are only three leadership styles, while others claim four, five and six. Regardless of how many actually exist, of the fundamental six, they all fall under three umbrellas, which are: authoritarian (or autocratic); democratic (or participatory); and, laissez-faire (or free reign). According to Voon, Lo, Ngui and Ayob (2011) " Leadership is a process of interaction between leaders and followers where the leader attempts to influence followers to achieve a common goal ...previous studies on leadership have identified different types of leadership styles which leaders adopt in managing organizations. Among the more prominent leadership styles are Burns' (1978) transactional and transformational leadership styles." The characteristic of transactional leadership is contingent based; offering rewards for a job well done. It is task driven and values are not shared with subordinates and leadership intervention only occurs when problems arise. (McGuire and Kennerly, 2006; Mary, 2005)

The most common leadership styles under this umbrella are: bureaucratic, visionary (charismatic), autocratic (commanding), participative (democratic), delegative (free reign), and servant leadership (coaching). The way a manager carries out their leadership role will have a major impact on the work environment and employee responsibility. Below is a chart that outlines and compares the more common leadership styles.
It also shows whether the leadership style is transactional or transformational.

Style Description Utilization Advantages/Disadvantages Transactional
/Transformational
Bureaucratic Structured and follows established procedures. Sets high standards for performance. Does not explore new ways of problem solving but solves problems step-by-step, according to procedural manuals. To get quick results from a highly motivated and competent team. Usually seen in banks, public institutions, hospitals and government. Can increase quality; increase security; decrease corruption; frustrating for innovative and experienced leaders.
Overall impact - Negative

Transactional
Visionary (charismatic) Infuses energy and excitement into team members. Mobilizes people toward a vision. Seen when there is a lack of purpose or followership; mergers and business acquisitions. When changes require a new vision and when a clear direction is needed. Self-confidence, empathy, change catalyst.
Overall impact - Positive

Transformational
Autocratic (demanding) Does not ...

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