Democratic Leadership
Candy Piercy, Business Consultant, United Kingdom, Member
I think this is a very positive leadership style when used appropriately.
It needs to be alternated with other styles in an assertive manner.
Too much use of the democratic leadership style may damage the standing of the leader and cause frustration and confusion in the team. It may even lead to revolt against the team leader, who appears passive and looks as if they cannot make up their own mind.
An effective leader moves naturally between styles in an appropriate way. This movement is guided by a high degree of self awareness, empathy and overall emotional intelligence.
So democratic ledership needs to be used alongside visionary and coaching leadership in particular. Different leaders will use the different styles in different proportions, with different teams.
