Source | www.freemalaysiatoday.com | Erika Peres
Do you see a sudden change in your subordinates the minute you enter the room? Does your harsh attitude yield counterproductive results in the workplace? Have you just received a new position and are looking to bring about change in your workplace?
Whatever the case, positive leadership is a trait every person in a position of power should have. Organisations and leaders must ensure a positive environment for employees to work in.
The 20th-century psychologist Kurt Lewin, who is known for his contributions to social and organisational psychology and group dynamics, classified leaders into three broad categories.
1. Laissez-faire leadership
This might be every employee’s favourite leadership style – minimal contact and communication with little interference. Employees are left to their own devices, with little to no management.
Studies show that this leadership style yields solid results if it is paired with the right type of manager who serves as an intermediary between the company and its staff.
2. Autocratic leadership style
The opposite of the laissez-faire leadership style, this usually leads to an unhealthy workplace with unhappy staff.
Although mostly a thing of the past, some still believe this approach can produce the right results if a transparent system of communication and feedback is used.
3. Participative leadership style
This leadership style combines the best of worlds. The leader gives space for subordinates to express their ideas and voices, while maintaining overall control over the direction and vision of the team.
