Leadership style

How it is used

A common interview and training topic: 'How would you describe your leadership style?' Familiar labels include autocratic, democratic, coaching, servant and transformational. Many writers on management say good leaders adapt their style to the situation.

Example sentences

1. My leadership style is quite hands-on, but I'm learning to step back.

2. A crisis calls for a different leadership style from a normal week.

Common collocations

• describe your leadership style
• adapt your leadership style
• democratic leadership style
• autocratic leadership style

Related terms

• leadershipThe ability to guide a group of people towards a shared goal, and the act of doing so, through example, influence and clear direction rather than authority alone.
• servant leadershipA leadership approach in which the leader's main role is to serve the team, by supporting people's growth and removing obstacles, rather than to control them.
• transformational leadershipA leadership style in which leaders inspire people with a shared vision and their own example, encouraging them to look beyond their own interests and achieve more than expected.
• coachingA way of helping someone improve their skills and performance mainly by asking questions and guiding them to find their own answers, rather than telling them what to do.
• hands-onPersonally involved in the practical, day-to-day work rather than only directing it from a distance; also used for training that involves doing things.

More terms: Leadership Styles and Skills

• mentor
• emotional intelligence
• lead by example
• conflict resolution
• psychological safety
• step up