Consider the following facts regarding the styles of leadership.

A. An autocratic leader exercises more control by using forces within the group.
B. A democratic leader will develop action plans and makes decisions in consultation with others.
C. The group members work on their own tasks resolving issues themselves in free-rein leadership.
D. A democratic leader does not believe in the use of power unless it is absolutely essential.
E. Authoritarian leadership style facilitates quick decision making.

Choose the correct answer from the options given below.

B, C and E Only

Depending on the use of authority, there are three basic styles of leadership:

(i) Autocratic or Authoritarian leader- An autocratic leader gives orders and expects his subordinates to obey those orders. If a manager is following this style, then communication is only one-way with the subordinate only acting according to the command given by the manager. This leader is dogmatic, i.e., does not change or wish to be contradicted. His following is based on the assumption that reward or punishment both can be given depending upon the result. This leadership style is effective in getting productivity in many situations like in a factory where the supervisor is responsible for production on time and has to ensure labour productivity. Quick decision-making is also facilitated. But there are variations also, they may listen to everyone’s opinion, consider subordinates ideas and concerns but the decision will be their own.

(ii) Democratic or Participative leader- A democratic leader will develop action plans and makes decisions in consultation with his subordinates. He will encourage them to participate in decision-making. This kind of leadership style is more common now-a-days, since leaders also recognise that people perform best if they have set their own objectives. They also need to respect the other’s opinion and support subordinates to perform their duties and accomplish organisational objectives. They exercise more control by using forces within the group.

(iii) Laissez faire or Free-rein leader- Such a leader does not believe in the use of power unless it is absolutely essential. The followers are given a high degree of independence to formulate their own objectives and ways to achieve them. The group members work on their own tasks resolving issues themselves. The manager is there only to support them and supply them the required information to complete the task assigned. At the same time, the subordinate assumes responsibility for the work to be performed.