

The adaptive style of leadership might treat each member of the team differently based on their seniority within the team and level of experience.Ī successful leader knows how to manage these four styles based on the circumstances at hand. For example, suppose there is a new project being worked on by a team. In this case, given the existence of this level employee, you wouldn’t want to stymie their proven ability to perform.Īdaptive: A fluid style that takes into consideration the context of the environment and the individual being led. An example might be when an excellent sales opportunity presents itself and you let your most seasoned salesperson who closes a high percentage of business take the reigns. It allows the employee to take initiative and have latitude in developing a process to reach the desired outcome.


Laissez-faire: This is basically a hands-off approach. This style would allow that person to help solve the problem based on their knowledge while at the same time allowing you to assess their development and teach them some of the finer points. An appropriate example would be when working with a subordinate on a problem that has arisen, when that subordinate has experience, but perhaps still needs to learn some of the finer nuances. Participative: This style seeks input from others and lets those being led participate in the decision-making process. They need a lot of direction until they become versed in how and when to do something. A good example of when the directive style is appropriate would be when directing an employee who is new to the industry or task at hand. Someone using a directive style tells people what to do and expects them to do it right away. This article discusses four basic types: Directive, Participative, Laissez-faire and Adaptive.ĭirective: This is the perhaps the oldest form and is relatively autocratic. However, different circumstances call for different management styles. Capable leadership is one of the most important traits of a successful business owner, manager or executive.
