Leadership Styles and Their Effectiveness Essay Example

common belief is that leaders are made, not born (Clark, 2005). This paper aims to identify the characteristics that make a great leader by analyzing different styles of leadership. By exploring these different styles, a clearer understanding of leadership's influence, particularly in the school setting, will be achieved. While leadership remains subjective and relative (Bittel, 1989), this paper aims to provide a more objective perspective on the topic by highlighting its essential components and proven strategies. Drawing evidence from literature, numerous books have been written on leadership, with experts sharing their thoughts and ideas. The past 30 years have seen an influx of experts in the field. Despite the various explanations and terminologies used to describe leadership, the fundamental perspective on leadership remains consistent. Even renowned expert John Maxwell acknowledges this perspective.Perhaps the most popular expert in leadership summarizes it as simply the influence of one person over others (1998). Not surprisingly, experts bring with them different positions on leadership. They also encourage people to subscribe to their own brand or style of leading. However, there seems to be a wide range of options when it comes to leadership style, which can be categorized into three general categories: Autocratic, Laissez Faire, and Democratic (Goodworth 1988; Vaccio 1988). Autocratic or Authoritarian Leadership is defined as one that dominates (Bittel 1989). Its most common characteristic is the comprehensive rule over team members or followers. Most likely, Autocratic Leaders will not acknowledge that they are. However, the reality is that it is the easiest and most common style in leadership. It is so common that individuals usually adapt to it more quickly. Even though this style is seen

as harsh and often unproductive as it stirs team members or followers towards passive resistance, it can be highly effective in situations requiring urgent action. The greatest dictators in history all possessed autocratic leadership traits that they maximized to propel them to infamous success. One of the most evident reasons for this particular style is that it takes advantage of the weaknesses of team members or followers in every situation. While Autocratic Leadership suppresses input from team members or followers.The antonym of Laissez Faire Leadership, also known as Free Reign, is a leadership style in which decision-making is placed in the hands of the team members or followers. It involves very little involvement from the leader, giving little direction and motivation. This type of leadership is only ideal for highly motivated individuals with great initiative, as it empowers them to achieve goals. Democratic Leadership, also referred to as Participative, is another leadership style where the leader consults with team members or followers in decision-making without fully relinquishing control. Engagement is encouraged, hence the name, and members are also empowered. However, unlike Laissez Faire Leadership, Democratic Leadership involves more leader involvement, as the final judgement still rests with them. These three leadership styles are distinct from each other and have their own advantages and disadvantages. Nevertheless, they all define leadership as influence, which is a universally agreed upon fact among experts.Critical Analysis

The previous paragraphs mentioned that leadership is relative, depending on the individual taking on the role. Each style of leadership has both positive and negative traits and is ideal in certain situations. Each style has the potential for achieving success. In a school setting, leadership

often combines the three categories. This is not an ideal practice, but it is common. In many cases, there is an authoritative relationship between teachers and students. The teachers give instructions and the students follow them. This pattern, however, is becoming outdated. Nowadays, teachers and students have a free exchange of ideas. In fact, there are times when teachers allow students to take control of discussions. Especially in school teams, managers are often accused of giving their team complete freedom during games. The level of trust is so high that authority is effortless. The democratic style of leadership is usually preferred. Open sharing of opinions and balanced decision-making are often sought after. In the school setting, this style of leadership is apparent in organizations. Teachers and students are treated as equals. The school paper is the best example of this type of leadership. Although teachers have the final say in publications, students are given the opportunity to express their opinions without fear of being shut down.School is an ideal place to develop leadership skills and explore different styles. It provides opportunities for individuals to learn and practice influencing others. However, experts agree that there is no one-size-fits-all leadership style. Different situations and individuals require different approaches. Therefore, it is necessary to adapt and combine multiple leadership styles to be effective. (Bittel, 1989; Clark, 2005)The United States is home to two notable publishing companies: Heimann Professional Publishing and Maxwell J.'s "21 incontrovertible Torahs of leadership" published by Thomas Nelson Publishing, both in 1998. Additionally, Veccio R.'s "Original behavior" was published in the United States by Dryden Press in 1988.