French Leadership Styles

Table 1: Differences in leaders and managers (Nahavandi, 2015)
Leaders and managers are two crucial elements in an organization. Leaders must not only represent the firm, however also embody individuals by balancing different interests among managers, workers and other business personal. Managers is generally the ones who organizes and coordinates different resources in a firm and the “Manager relies on control: the leader inspires trust” (M. Nen, 2015). As leaders can be managers, it is often difficult for a manager to be a leader, as leaders often have specific characteristic traits; not saying he/she (the manager) cannot development the traits needed. If they possess the desire and will power, one can become a successful leader. “The best …show more content…
In French, it means “let it be” or “leave it alone”, this style is seen more as a delegate type of leader. It is a do what you prefer method as long as the objective is done right. It is where the leader will more likely pass off task and duties, which allow followers of the group to take control of decision making and solve problems by themselves. However, the leader still take charge for the results (Emerald 1982a pp.1226-1238). In the construction world, this would be one of the least used styles of leadership. There are numerous characteristics for this style. There is little to no guidance to followers, majority of followers have complete freedom to make decisions. It is also deemed the laissez-faire leader should provide the resource and tools at need. This leadership style is not the best model where followers doesn’t possess the experience or background knowledge needed for the current task which leads to decision making. This style is more linked towards undesirable outcomes such as poor work performance, low effectiveness from leaders and lower grade of group satisfaction (Emerald 1982b pp.1226-1238). This style is seen as more the authoritarian style of laissez-faire. There are many who are not good at time management, project management or even problem solving on their own. In these situations, projects can lead off track and deadlines can be overlooked, when not enough direction or advice is given. This can lead to lack of group awareness, where …show more content…
It requires collaboration between the leaders and who they guide. This allows all members a role in the decision process. They encourage trust and respect between the group. This approach requires more honesty and whole-heartedness, which their choices are based on their ethics and values. “People are social entities, interacting in groups and societies” (G. Goethals, G. Sorenson, J. Burn 2004a p. 332). The group members are freely open to discuss and exchange their ideas. The leader places more importance on rewards then punishment. As this style mostly focuses on equality and openness of ideas, the leader is present to offer guidance and control. It is stated “The strongest communities have been the ones that are able to maximize benefits for their people (or at least some of them) and are capable of defending themselves against the claims of others” (G. Goethals, G. Sorenson, J. Burn 2004b p. 332). The top qualities for a democratic leader is listed as, “honesty, intelligence, courage, equality and ability” (J. Raelin, 2012 pp 7-9). This leads to members will be more encouraged to express ideas and opinions, member will feel more involved in the process and creativity is highly satisfied and cheered. Leader who take this side of the laissez-faire approach does understand errors can happen and considers them learning opportunities for all members. In this way, everyone benefits and the same mistakes are