Question

What are Goleman’s six leadership prototypes? Are there any other leadership prototypes that could be added to Goleman’s list? Explain.

Answer 1

The six leadership traits as per Daniel Goleman are given below.

1) Democratic Leadership

A democratic leader gives importance to each and everyone in the team. Instead of giving instructions, they would like to listen to the opinion of others. Democratic leaders usually have separate choices for different works based on the capability of team members. These people are more friendly with others.

2) Coaching Leadership

A coaching leader analyze people constantly then identifies the strengths and weakness of them. These leaders always try to motivate others and is interested in guiding the team. They can provide useful suggestions to improve the team's performance if the members are willing to accept it.

3) Commanding Leadership

These people are usually strict and punctual. Their priority is obedience of the team members. It is a quick and effective way for a short period. This kind of leadership is good for fixing particular issues etc. For long term goals people will not be comfortable under this of leadership.

4) Pacesetting Leadership

A pacesetting leader works very hard for achievements and expecting the same from others. They are only focused on the result. Some times team members find it difficult to keep up with them. It is a very effective leadership style within a team that consists of competent members.

5) Affiliative Leadership

Affiliative leaders are emotionally well balanced with the things they do. They have skills in solving interpersonal problems with in the team. These people are interested in understanding different personalities. This helps them in systematically motivating others when there is a stressful environment.

6) Visionary Leadership

A visionary leader is good at foreseeing things based on their experience. They have a clear vision of the target and will explain it to team members. These people are good at convincing others and speak about achievements in an exciting manner. Due to their self-confidence in communication others trusts them.

Some other leadership styles are as follows.

(a) Laissez-Faire

This is one of the leadership style that allows a lot of freedom to the members. These people barely try to instruct others. The team members can work and schedule things comfortably without any stress. It is an effective style for a team of experienced members who requires fewer instructions.

(b) Autocratic Leadership

It is a much tougher version of commanding leadership. This is usually applied to the lower-level workers who work under a wage system. People are not allowed to express their opinion under this leadership. Orders should be executed immediately or else the workers will be dismissed.