If you saw my last post, “Leading from the Front: Adapting Leadership Styles”, we discussed different ways to lead a team. Here is a more profound take on smoothly switching from one style to another.

Micromanagement -> Democratic

• Start by letting your team make small choices. See how they do and then give them more say.
• Get everyone for discussion around the table. Actively listen to what they think, but hold your final say handy.

Democratic -> Transformational

• Move from just making decisions together to establishing inspiring goals.
• Push your team to think more significantly. Help them to notice what is beyond the regular horizon.

Transformational -> Laissez-Faire

• Step back once your team is all fired up and aligned with the big picture. Let them take the lead.
• Transition from being the guide to just checking in. Offer a helping hand or advice when they need it.

Laissez-Faire -> Micromanagement

• If things start to wobble, step in more. Take charge.
• Set up regular times to catch up and get more involved in the nitty-gritty.

The Usual Path
Micromanagement -> Democratic -> Transformational -> Laissez-Faire

No-one-size-fits-all. A good leader means being flexible and knowing when to switch things up. It is all part of building a team that is not just successful but also constantly pushing the boundaries.