In 2000, Daniel Goleman conducted a seminal study with over 3000 managers that clarified six distinct leadership styles and traits.
Each style has its positives and negatives. Which one describes you?
- Visionary — mobilize people toward a vision.
Works best when a clear direction or change is needed.
Creates the most positive climate. - Coaching — develop people for the future.
Works best when helping people and building long-term strength.
Creates a positive climate. - Affiliative — create emotional bonds and harmony.
Works best to heal rifts in teams or motivate people in stressful times.
Creates a positive climate. - Democratic — build consensus through participation.
Works best to create consensus or get input.
Creates a positive climate. - Pacesetting — expect excellence and self-direction.
Works best to get quick results from a highly competent team.
Creates a negative climate. - Commanding — demand immediate compliance.
Works best in crisis or with problematic people.
Creates a negative climate.
The most important aspect of this breakdown is that since each style fits a different situation, a good leader needs to be able to switch between them when the context requires. A leadership style is thus a tool, not personality trait.
Leaders who have mastered four or more—especially the authoritative, democratic, affiliative, and coaching styles—have the very best climate and business performance.