Autocratic leadership
Autocratic leadership is a form of management where one leader typically has complete control over a work area or project. In a small business environment, the owner may implement this form of leadership when the operation is relatively small and he has a limited number of employees. While an autocratic style is considered more traditional, and in some instances, outdated form of leadership, it still offers a variety of benefits.
An autocratic style of leadership can be effective in work environments where decisions need to be made quickly. The sole responsibility rests with the leader, and she makes the decision without the need to consult others. If a business faces constant change, the autocratic leader is able to respond in a way that prevents the business from falling behind the competition and keeps up with customer demand.
In an autocratic work environment, the leader typically keeps a close watch on the activities of the workers. This eliminates the tendency for workers to "slack off" that may occur with more lenient management styles. The result can be increased productivity and speed, as workers who fall behind are quickly identified and corrective measures are taken. Quality may improve, as the employees' work is monitored constantly. Time wasting and the need to waste resources is also reduced.
Autocratic leadership can work well for managers who prefer having complete control over an operation. Because the outcome is totally in his hands, the manager does not experience the stress of having to rely on help from outside his work area to complete the project or task. For this type of individual, having complete authority can actually result in reduced stress since he has complete control over his own fate.
Because one individual has complete control over an operation, there is less of a need for layers of management or bureaucracy. This can make for a more efficient operation, as fewer people are involved in the decision-making process. The
An autocratic style of leadership can be effective in work environments where decisions need to be made quickly. The sole responsibility rests with the leader, and she makes the decision without the need to consult others. If a business faces constant change, the autocratic leader is able to respond in a way that prevents the business from falling behind the competition and keeps up with customer demand.
In an autocratic work environment, the leader typically keeps a close watch on the activities of the workers. This eliminates the tendency for workers to "slack off" that may occur with more lenient management styles. The result can be increased productivity and speed, as workers who fall behind are quickly identified and corrective measures are taken. Quality may improve, as the employees' work is monitored constantly. Time wasting and the need to waste resources is also reduced.
Autocratic leadership can work well for managers who prefer having complete control over an operation. Because the outcome is totally in his hands, the manager does not experience the stress of having to rely on help from outside his work area to complete the project or task. For this type of individual, having complete authority can actually result in reduced stress since he has complete control over his own fate.
Because one individual has complete control over an operation, there is less of a need for layers of management or bureaucracy. This can make for a more efficient operation, as fewer people are involved in the decision-making process. The