Styles Of Leadership

One reason simple answers have not emerged from the research is that there are no simple answers, only complicated answers hedged by conditions and exceptions.  Followers do like being treated with consideration, do like to have their say, do like a chance to exercise their own initiative — and participation does increase acceptance of decisions.  But there are times when followers welcome rather than reject authority, want prompt and clear decisions from the leader, and want to close ranks around the leader.  The ablest and most effective leaders do not hold to a single style;  they may be highly supportive in personal relations when that is needed, yet capable of a quick, authoritative decision when the situation requires it.
—     John W. Gardner
From his book:  “On Leadership“
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