Booklet 11: Principles of Management and Leadership

Question 1

What is a Authoritarian Style of Management and Leadership?

Answer 1

The manager has total power over decision-making and communication is one way only.

Question 2

Advantages of Authoritarian style of management.

Answer 2

1. Useful when there are large numbers of low skilled.
2. Useful when quick decisions are needed e.g. during crisis.
3. Useful where employees lack the skills or desire to take decisions.

Question 3

Disadvantages of Authoritarian style of management.

Answer 3

1. Can be de-motivating.
2. Prevents staff from getting promotion and development.
3. It can cause staff resentment.

Question 4

What is a Paternalistic Style of Management and Leadership?

Answer 4

Aims to develop his/her management style as a parental figure towards employees.

Question 5

Advantages of Paternalistic Style of management.

Answer 5

1. More motivated workers.
2. May lead to higher rates of productivity.
3. Less labour turnover.
4. Employees are likely to be more loyal to management.

Question 6

Disadvantages of Paternalistic Style of management.

Answer 6

1. There can be an overreliance on the manager.
2. All key final decisions are taken irrespective of employee input.
3. Difficult to satisfy all members of staff.

Question 7

What is a Laissez-faire style of management and leadership?

Answer 7

This management style allows employees to carry out their tasks without interference from management in order to achieve business objectives.

Question 8

Advantages of the Laissez-faire style of management.

Answer 8

1. It encourages higher productivity.
2. Management only intervenes when required.
3. It allows the workforce to be more creative, innovative and resourceful.

Question 9

Disadvantages of the Laissez-faire style of management.

Answer 9

1. It May not be suitable where quick decisions must be made.
2. Likely to be unsuccessful in a less educated, skilled and experienced workforce.
3. Some individuals need to be given direction.

Question 10

What is a Democratic of management and leadership?

Answer 10

Encourages managers to involve employees in the decision-making process through ongoing discussion and consultation (two-way communication).

Question 11

Advantages of a Democratic style of management.

Answer 11

1. Participation of workers in decision-making.
2. Could improve morale and better quality decisions.
3. Likely to yield a more positive effect on staff motivation and productivity.

Question 12

Disadvantages of a Democratic style of management.

Answer 12

1. Decision-making process could be slower.
2. Loss of management control is in danger.
3. Not possible to satisfy all staff and managers.