{"id":1206,"date":"2012-12-06T04:38:20","date_gmt":"2012-12-06T09:38:20","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/facilitativeleadership.wordpress.com\/?p=1206"},"modified":"2026-05-01T15:22:34","modified_gmt":"2026-05-01T19:22:34","slug":"leadership-style","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/mgrush.com\/blog\/leadership-style\/","title":{"rendered":"Leadership Style and How to Improve Yours Quickly"},"content":{"rendered":"

Leadership style depends largely on the flow of content: Directive\u2014one-way, Consultative\u2014equal partner in content, and Exploratory\u2014facilitative, not adding content.<\/h2>\n

Directive<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

A leader who predominantly gives direction and guidance with little participation or content added by the group characterizes this leadership style. Directive leadership is appropriate when the purpose is to share information quickly and clearly, such as briefings, staff meetings, symposiums, etc.<\/span><\/p>\n

Consultative<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

This leadership style is characterized by consulting with colleagues and subordinates in an open and respectful, not manipulative manner, during the meeting. Consultative leadership is appropriate when the purpose is to have the group make decisions with contributions and equal participation from the leader.<\/span><\/p>\n

Exploratory<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

This pure and optimal facilitation style should be the predominant approach used for task-building and assignment meetings. In an exploratory approach, the leader is neutral in terms of contributing content to the meeting but is responsible for providing and managing the technique and agenda. In many task-related meetings, an outside facilitator is used to provide exploratory leadership while the business owner participates with a consultative leadership style.<\/span><\/p>\n

No One Style<\/strong><\/span><\/h4>\n

There is neither a single \u2018right\u2019 answer nor one right leadership style. The appropriate style is dependent on the particular type of meeting situation and the nature of the group. Leaders of teams that work well together can use the exploratory style more frequently. Leaders with contentious groups either need to be directive or employ a neutral facilitator for their meetings. Managing meetings is much like managing people\u2014be flexible and use the most appropriate style depending on the situation.<\/span><\/p>\n

Guidelines<\/strong><\/span><\/h4>\n
\"Leadership

Strolling and Smiling Makes You More Likable<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

The same skills are required to lead a meeting as are required to facilitate a meeting. Keep the following guidelines in mind, especially when leading:<\/span><\/p>\n