Understanding Management, Leadership And Decision Making Flashcards
What is autocratic leadership
It refers to a leadership or management style that assumes that information and decision making are best kept at the top of the organisation.
Advantages of an autocratic leadership
- Decisions are made quickly.
- Decisions made by the most experienced members of the organisation.
- Employees have clear instructions of requirements.
Disadvantages of an autocratic leadership
- Employees ideas and creativity might not be considered.
- Employees may become demotivated by lack of input or responsibility.
- Amount of decision making can be stressful for managers.
What is a democratic leadership
This entails operating a business according to decisions agreed by the majority.
Advantages of a democratic leadership
- Highly motivated employees who feel empowered.
- Employees are better prepared for promotion.
- Employees more accepting of change within the organisation.
Disadvantages of a democratic leadership
- Decision making can take time.
- A strong leader is required to lead discussions and supervise employees.
What is a laissez-faire leadership
Under this approach the leader has a minimal input into the operations of the business. Employees are empowered to take the majority of decisions with little reference to the leader.
Advantages of a laissez-faire leadership
- Effective in situations where staff are highly skilled and motivated.
- Employees may feel empowered and motivated by their responsibility.
- Leaves room for innovative decision making.
Disadvantages to a laissez-faire leadership
- Poor performance can result if inexperienced staff are left without direction.
- Employees may feel pressured if they have no support- leading to demotivation and stress.
- It is unclear who takes responsibility.
What is paternalistic leadership
- Leader decides what is best for employees.
- Close to a parent/child relationship.
- Still little delegation.
- A softer form of authoritarian leadership.
What are Theory X managers
- Average worker is lazy and dislike work.
- Workers need to be controlled and directed.
- Centralised organisation and exercise of authority.
What are Theory Y managers
- Most people enjoy work.
- Workers will take responsibility and organised themselves.
- Decision making can be delegated.
Influences on the styles of leadership
- The tradition and history of the business.
- The type of labour force.
- The nature of the task and the timescale.
- The personality of the manager or leader.
What is the Tannenbaum and Schmidt Continuum
The Tannenbaum and Schmidt Continuum recognises that the chosen leadership style depends on a variety of factors. It also allows for ‘situational’ factors such as the need for urgency in leadership and decision making.
Tannenbaum and Schmidt- Tells
- Leader identifies problems, makes decisions and announces to subordinates, expects implementation.
Tannenbaum and Schmidt- Sells
- Leader still makes decision, but attempts to overcome resistance through discussion and persuasion.
Tannenbaum and Schmidt- Consults
- Leader identifies problem and presents it to the group.
- Listens to advice and suggestions before making a decision.
Tannenbaum and Schmidt- Joins
- Leader defines the problem and passes on the solving and decision making to the group (which manager is part of).
