What Is Democratic Leadership Style? Qualities, 5 Examples & Books

Leadership is the art of getting someone else to do something you want done because he wants to do it.

What is Democratic leadership?

Defining leadership- Democratic leadership also known as participative leadership is a leadership style in which members of the team or employees actively work together with the leader to achieve a common goal.

Leader’s Tip
Promote diversity of thought by cultivating an atmosphere where everyone’s voice is heard and respected.

Who is a Democratic leader?

A democratic leader fosters, involves, and leverages everyone’s involvement in decision-making, as well as contributing to the leadership development of workers. He employs a democratic approach when it comes to team participation. In addition to this, Employees who work with participative leaders can exhibit their ingenuity by developing solutions to difficulties.

What is Democratic leadership style?

Democratic leadership style of leadership allows a group to discuss and make choices together. A top-down or command-and-control management style, in which executives make decisions without consulting their subordinates, is in contrast. Because the team makes choices collectively, the participatory technique encourages collaboration and empowerment by forcing all members of the group to participate in the conversation.

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5 Democratic Leader Qualities

The leadership skills of a democratic leader are-

1. Open to suggestion
2. Team builder
3. Empowering
4. Visionary
5. Democratic

5 Examples of Great democratic leaders

So, Here are examples of great leaders who followed the democratic style of leadership-

1.    James Parker- At Southwest Airlines, Parker put the demands of the employees ahead of his own. While all planes were grounded following the 9/11 attacks, Southwest employees were seen bringing their customers out to enjoy activities such as movies and bowling, as well as engaging them in other activities to help pass the time. Furthermore, while other airlines were laying off employees, Southwest introduced profit-sharing.

2.    Jack Stahl- For the President of Coca-Cola and subsequently the CEO of Revlon, working with others was the way to go. He has boosted profitability under his leadership because of his ability to work with the finest elements of any activity while also standing back when necessary.

3.    Donald Trump- By promoting ideas as well as enabling people to freely exchange knowledge, Trump has created a fortune. Further, In every choice, he examines all possible consequences, considers other people’s opinions, and also, strives to grow the collective mind, guaranteeing that everyone has a say in the organization’s endeavours.

What are 5 Advantages & Disadvantages of Democratic Leadership?

So, the five advantages of democratic leadership

1. Promotes unity
2. Boost’s morale
3. Policy adoption
4. Encourage Creative thinking and innovation
5. And at last, Enhances retention

Leader’s Tip
Promote clear lines of communication by encouraging team members to speak up, share their perspectives, and be heard.

Five disadvantages of democratic leadership are–

1. Firstly, It is a Slow process
2. It may be challenging for large groups
3. The involvement of many members can create confusion
4. Retards the quality of expertise
5. In last, Inhibit swift decision-making

5 Democratic Leader Books

Thus, Here are best books for democratic leaders-

1. The Democratic Leader: How Democracy Defines, Empowers and Limits its Leaders by John Kane, Haig Patapan 
2. Abraham Lincoln: Sources and Style of Leadership (contributions In American History) by Vincent Marsala, William D. Pederson, Frank J. Williams
3. Democratic Curriculum Leadership by James G. Henderson; Daniel J. Castner; Jennifer L. Schneider 
4. Dispersed Democratic Leadership: Origins, Dynamics, and Implications by John Kane, Paul ‘t Hart, Haig Patapan
5. Leadership Jesus Style by Douglas A Rehberg

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5 best leadership quotes

Leadership lessons to empower you-

1. Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection, we can catch excellence.”– Vince Lombardi
2. True leadership stems from individuality that is honestly and sometimes imperfectly expressed… Leaders should strive for authenticity over perfection.” – Sheryl Sandberg
3. Leadership is a matter of having people look at you and gain confidence, seeing how you react. If you’re in control, they’re in control.” – Tom Landry
4. “Great leaders are almost always great simplifiers, who can cut through argument, debate and doubt to offer a solution everybody can understand.” –  Colin Powell
5. A genuine leader is not a searcher for consensus but a molder of consensus.” – Martin Luther King Jr.

FAQs

Key Takeaways

• Democratic leaders encourage team member participation in decision making, which increases loyalty and pride in one’s work.
• Teamwork and interaction: Teamwork, creativity, and new ideas benefit from team members actively contributing to the process.
• Accountability and buy-in: Team members are more likely to take ownership of and support the transformation initiatives when they feel like their input is acknowledged and considered.