A1. Leadership
Based on the analysis quiz in the course of study I have a participative leadership style. I find that input from your team is the best way to accomplish assigned goals and tasks. I believe that through discussion the team would propose the decision and together the leader and the team decide on the outcome. I also believe though that should the team find it hard to come to a consensus, then as the leader is it my role to make the final decision when needed.
A1a. Strengths
One great advantage to a participative leadership style is that this type of leader often energizes employees which make the employees feel empowered and results in a high level of job satisfaction. When the employee feels as though they have a “say so” they are more motivated to participate and engage in the task at hand. Another great benefit to a participative leadership style is that the manager will gain useful knowledge about their employees and the workplace environment by encouraging feedback from employees. This will help the manger become a more effective leader of the team.
A1b. Weaknesses
One major disadvantage to a participative leadership style is that too much involvement without direction can cause the employees to become overwhelmed and therefore lack effective decision making abilities. Another disadvantage is that if you as the leader rely too much on group input and interaction, the employees may become confused and dissatisfied and this could lead to lower performance and high employee turnover. There is a very thin line that needs to be towed when you are a participative leader.
A2. Comparison of Leadership Styles Unlike the participative leader, the autocratic leader retains most of the authority. This leadership focuses on total control with little to no input from the team. They are confident in their decisions and assuming the employees