What style of leadership works best? It depends on the problem at hand...

It's an age-old question that is as timeless as the tides.  Is one particular leadership style preferable to another, regardless of the particular situation?  Most studies would suggest that the best leaders will exercise the three basic (there are more, but these will suffice for now) leadership styles - authoritarian, democratic, and laissez-faire - depending upon the context of the situation.  Note that authoritarian leaders rule their groups, while democratic leaders try to include everyone in the decision-making process.  With authoritarians, "my way or the highway" is the rule of the day.  Democratic leaders, on the other hand, let consensus decide.  Laissez-faire leaders simply let the group run by itself.

When most individuals think of authoritarian leadership, they will undoubtedly make references to leadership in the military.  They would be incorrect in doing so.  I have read a number of books on military history in general, as well as several biographies of military leaders throughout history.  Combined with my own anecdotal experience while serving in the Navy, I would have to say that the best military leaders are the ones who can easily flip back and forth among the three different leadership styles mentioned above, again depending upon the specific needs of the situation.  

I have been particularly interested by the relatively recent writings of Keith Grint (see a review of his theory of leadership here).  Dr. Grint is Professor Emeritus of Leadership at Warwick University, and he generally breaks down leadership into three categories - Command, Management, and Leadership.  "Command" is basically the authoritarian style of leadership, while "Leadership" is more like the democratic style.  However, "Management" is not laissez-faire but sits more intermediate between "Command" and "Leadership."  

It's quite an elegant solution to an age-old question, at least in my opinion.  

Dr. Grint goes on to define Critical, Tame, and Wicked problems.  "Tame" problems are those that, while complicated have probably occurred before.  The solution to "Tame" problems is fairly straightforward.  Here, "Management" probably works best.  

"Wicked" problems are both complicated and complex and probably have never occurred before.  The solution to "Wicked" problems aren't readily apparent, and they may be as complicated and complex as the problem itself.  Here, the "Leadership" style that leverages the expertise of the group fits the best.

Finally, when you think of "Critical" problems, think of a crisis.  The world is falling apart all around you, everyone is looking to you to tell them what to do.  In other words, with "Critical" problems, "Command" is the best approach.

There's more to discuss here.  Next time, we will review some of the evidence that supports at least some of these arguments.  Stay tuned for "Diabolical Dictators or Capable Commanders" next time.