Leadership

The Versatile Leader – Part 1

By Ron Pereira Updated on August 18th, 2009

There’s one thing I know for sure… being a leader of people is hard work.

No matter if the “people” are those you work with or your children at home… knowing how to best inspire and move them to greatness is no easy task.

However, one thing is certain… great leaders all have one thing in common – they’re versatile. In other words, they are able to adapt their leadership style to the person or situation in front of them.

Along these lines, there are at least 4 different – possibly more – leadership styles that can be used.

And if you’re curious what these are you are in luck as I’ll explain exactly what each of these styles are all about over the next several articles.  So, if you want to be alerted of when these new articles are available please click here and subscribe to LSS Academy.

The Directing Leadership Style

OK, let’s get started.  First we have the directing leadership style which basically means you make the call and people do what you say.

You are not asking for consensus or opinions or alternative ideas. Nope. You are in charge and people better follow.

Sounds sort of harsh, doesn’t it? I tend to agree.

However, if you’re ever faced with extreme adversity (think 9/11) do you want your leaders to ask you to brainstorm for awhile? Possibly “ideate” for a bit? Of course not.

In situations like this we want, and need, leaders to stand up and take charge of the situation.

Additionally, if you are dealing with a new employee or possibly a child, a certain amount of direction is going to be needed from time to time.

Your Homework Today

Throughout this series of articles I’ll be assigning some homework… giving you chance, if you’d like, to practice or at least think about some of the things we’ve covered.

So, today you’re homework is twofold:

  1. Seek out someone who is leading with a directing style. Once you locate the person and situation just observe. How is the “other person” reacting to this directive style? Do you feel this style of leadership is/was appropriate for the situation? Why? Why not?
  2. Reflect on your own leadership style. Ask yourself how often you lead others, even those you may not have direct “authority” over, with a directing style? Has it been appropriate?

What do you think?

What do you think? Do you agree that a directive style of leadership is appropriate in certain situations? Also, do you agree with me that a leader should be versatile? Or do you feel a leader is what he/she is and they shouldn’t attempt to change?


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