Several years ago I came across four definitions of leadership as I was trying to help my congregation develop a small group ministry. These definitions can be helpful for anyone trying to grow skills as a leader. The big question is "What kind of leader am I?"
Here are four types of differing leadership styles. Which one are you?
The Autocratic Leader
- Maintains total control and treats team members as "listeners" and "followers."
- Determines all the goals and policies.
- Is more interested in subject matter and content than in people.
- Makes all the decisions and disregards the opinions and views of others.
- Talks too much.
- Focuses attention on self.
- Has a tendency to regard members of the team as puppets.
Laissez-Faire Leader
- Exercises minimal control of the team and allows members to direct.
- Does not prepare for meetings.
- Allows all discussions to drift.
- Does not seem to care too much for what is going on.
- Causes the group to have no focus and accomplishes very little.
- Encourages fragmentation through lack of discipline.
- Makes no attempt to design or regulate events.
- Lacks courage in making plans.
Authoritative Leader
- Maintains strong control but will allow members to be involved in discussions.
- Has a purpose and a plan but will allow modification.
- Is active and energetic.
- Seeks the involvement of others.
- Is prepared to give necessary direction and support.
- Is a good communicator.
- Will take on responsibility until someone else assumes it.
- Use personal power to empower others.
- Prepares well, ask questions, then asks for members of the team to respond.
Democratic Leader
- Shares control with team members.
- Shares leadership responsibility.
- Believes in the ability and skills of others.
- Creates a sense of security and belonging.
- Ensures that others are offered leadership opportunities.
- Makes sure that if he is not part of the team that the group will be successful without his presence.
- Creates a healthy and strong communication skill between team members.
- Recognizes the value of each and every individual on the team.
- Always involves others in leadership and skill development.
Which of these characteristics fit you best?
Which of these four would you hope to become as a leader?
Dale Roach
