Leadership styles that are collaborative and encourage others to be leaders themselves, versus followers, are generally acknowledged as more effective.  The results are not only better but also sustainable.

Inspiring others to bring out the leader within has it’s own built in succession plan.  Leading in a way that a persons best is drawn from a myriad of diverse sources, rather than a dictatorial do this do that style, is intuitively better.

Getting it Done

Suprisingly though, a balanced dose of authoritative practices can really enhance the visionary and collaborative traits.   Being clear and decisive, verging on overly directive, can be a fine line for the those that want to facilitate rather than force results.

One of the most important tasks of a leader is guiding followers to the groups goals and objectives.  In this case the I intend the use of the term leader not necessarily to mean the person in front or the term followers to refer to those behind.

Rather the terms are role representative, not indicative of how the role is exercised (i.e., not leading or following position is not implied).

The best approach at the appropriate time

The most successful  leaders tailor their approach to the context.  For example, for a team that has lost it’s way nuturing and developing activities might best be put on hold until the directional engine is started again.

In this case a clear simple and easily understandable strategy that can be embraced by all might be a better place to start.  Clear and forceful direction is probably warranted and would not be badly received.  In fact most likely will lead to faster development of a team capable of the more collaborative approach.

Recognizing the context and tailoring your leadership style, day by day, can lead to outstanding results.