People who study the theory of leadership are introduced to many styles of government – authoritarian, democratic, strategic, transformational, etc.
They debate the pros and cons of each of these types of leadership, as none of these types of leadership are perfect.
However, whatever management theory you are a fan of, several leadership styles are harmful. Here are some of them:
The omniscient leader
People do not look with particular inspiration and admiration at leaders who behave in such a way as if they know everything and every decision they make is the right one. Leaders who consider themselves smarter than others quickly become isolated from their team and gain their contempt.
The ever-absent leader
Some leaders are physically absent from the office – they are always at meetings, conferences, and business trips, or work from home. Others are proud that the door to their office is always open. However, if their thoughts are elsewhere and they do not pay any attention to the problems and demands that their employees come to them with, then their physical presence does not have a much different effect.
The static leader
The behavior of the leader is one of the most important factors on which the success of any team depends. Flexible, creative leaders inspire their employees to give their best. Static leaders, who never step out of their comfort zone and fiercely adhere to the status quo, encourage a lack of commitment, motivation, and interest.
The leader micromanager
Micromanagement has a detrimental effect on even the best teams, destroying their productivity and innovation. Part of the problem, in this case, is that micromanagers are usually unaware of the damage their management style is doing. These are the people who say, “I don’t believe in micromanagement, but…” Good leaders, on the other hand, try to cooperate and help their employees, not control their every move. They do not feel the need to do everything themselves and believe that their team members know and can do what is expected of them.
The leader is driven by his ego
The ego can harm leadership in two ways. The first is in the form of false pride, which makes you look good in any situation, even if it is at the expense of your colleagues. The second is in the form of questioning your skills and knowledge. The two forms are directed in opposite directions, but they are equally destructive.
The leader who controls his employees through fear
Those who rule by instilling fear are horrified by the idea that they may look weak. In their attempts to present themselves as strong and determined, they alienate their employees and create a toxic work atmosphere. Instead of analyzing problems and looking for solutions, they focus on blaming.
Talented employees do not tolerate such behavior and quickly leave work, which, however, leaves others who do not have as many opportunities for development to be harassed daily. After all, every leader has a preferred management style.
However, it is important to know the consequences for your employees of this choice. If you want your team to work well and be respected, do not approach the above types of leadership.
