By Definition, Democratic leaders accept input from one or more group members when making decisions and solving problems, but the leader retains the final say when choices are made. Group members tend to be encouraged and motivated by this style of leadership.
This style of leadership often leads to more effective and accurate decisions, since no leader can be an expert in all areas. Input from group members with specialized knowledge and expertise creates a more complete basis for decision-making.
There are many advantages of a democratic leadership style;
a) Active participation by team members leads an more engaged team, which results in higher productivity
b) Team members develop a greater sense of self - esteem, due to importance given to their ideas and their contributions
c) The team will be more committed to changes that may be brought about by policy changes, since they themselves participate in bringing about these changes.
d) Team members’ confidence, cooperation, and loyalty will grow amongst the group.
e) Will boost overall team morale resulting in less infighting and lower turnover.
As an Assistant store manager, I lead a large team who’s work experience and overall knowledge and skills vary. Although naturally I am a democratic leader, I am able to seamlessly switch to an autocratic leadership style when the situation requires.
As an example of my leadership style, before conducting department manager meetings, my role is to prepare an agenda, which outlines various topics and information that is to be discussed within the group. I Understand that a team who participates more during the meeting, is more likely to engage their own team afterwards. As a democratic leader, I ensure that topics are opened up to the group for discussion, so the team knows that their input is valued and respected. Time is dedicated for a roundtable that allows each department manager to share wins, best practices and team building within their own team, allowing the group to learn from each other, as well as build confidence and relationships within the team.
As an assistant store manager, I understand that each manager in the store is an expert in their own department. I give each the freedom to make their own decisions, but make sure that I am their for support and guidance when needed. This type of leadership style encourages creativity, and inspires the team to keep thinking outside the box.
As an example of my leadership style, before conducting department manager meetings, my role is to prepare an agenda, which outlines various topics and information that is to be discussed within the group. I Understand that a team who participates more during the meeting, is more likely to engage their own team afterwards. As a democratic leader, I ensure that topics are opened up to the group for discussion, so the team knows that their input is valued and respected. Time is dedicated for a roundtable that allows each department manager to share wins, best practices and team building within their own team, allowing the group to learn from each other, as well as build confidence and relationships within the team.
As an assistant store manager, I understand that each manager in the store is an expert in their own department. I give each the freedom to make their own decisions, but make sure that I am their for support and guidance when needed. This type of leadership style encourages creativity, and inspires the team to keep thinking outside the box.