Be a Democratic Leader, but Not Always! Prof. Dr. Jekabs U. Leititis, Member
Having worked for more than two decades in leading position (hospital management) in companies up to 4.000 employees I made the experience, that people in dependent positions need motivational leading styles. These democratic or participative style gives them the opportunity to be creative, self-determined, self-conscious - the basis for sustained success.
On the other hand there may be situations, where teams are waiting for clear, strict regulations and directives. In these instances the more democratic styles does not meet the expectations of the team. This is true specially in situations, where you have no time for creative solutions or where you have to meet regulations of any kind. Democratic leadership styles could then alienate the team -they expect clear decisions.
A situational leadership should change then to a more directive style. As one of my coaches said: "Leaders cannot always be democratic, in special situations you must be directive" - he exaggerated: "even dictatorial!" as exception!
