3.1.8 the relationship between management styles and management skills

• Management styles correlate with specific management skills, influencing their application.

Autocratic Style

• Manager makes all decisions independently with little to no employee input.
• Authority is centralized.
• Communication is one-way (top-down).
• Communication skills are used to give clear, direct instructions.
• Strong decision-making skills are crucial.
• Planning is done without consulting employees.
• Delegation is limited, with strict guidelines.
• Interpersonal skills are less emphasized.
• Example: A factory manager implements strict productivity targets without consulting workers.

Persuasive Style

• Manager makes decisions alone, but explains the reasoning to gain employee support.
• Communication is used to convince employees why decisions are necessary.
• The manager retains full control over decisions.
• Detailed strategic thinking is required to present decisions logically.
• Some delegation occurs.
• Interpersonal skills are important for building trust.
• Example: A sales manager implements new sales targets, explaining how they benefit employees.

Consultative Style

• Manager seeks employee input before making decisions, retaining final say.
• Two-way communication is encouraged.
• Employee opinions are considered before deciding.
• Planning requires time for discussion of employee suggestions.
• More delegation than autocratic and persuasive styles.
• Interpersonal skills are essential for valuing employee contributions.
• Example: A restaurant owner asks staff for ideas on improving service before making policy changes.

Participative Style

• Manager actively involves employees in decision-making.
• Authority is shared with employees.
• Open and two-way communication is essential.
• Shared decision-making is employed
• Collaborative planning develops shared goals and strategies.
• A high level of delegation is present.
• Strong interpersonal skills help build teamwork.
• Example: A software company allows employees to vote on new product features

Laissez-Faire Style

• Manager gives employees full autonomy.
• Employees make decisions with minimal supervision.
• Minimal direct communication is required.
• Employees make most decisions; manager provides overall vision.
• Employees plan their own work; manager sets broad objectives.
• Full delegation is standard.
• Interpersonal skills are important for trusting employees.
• Example: A creative agency allows designers to set their own schedules and project priorities.

Key Takeaways

• Autocratic and persuasive styles require strong decision-making and communication skills.
• Consultative and participative styles need strong interpersonal and delegation skills.
• Laissez-faire style relies on trust and minimal supervision.

A comparison of two management styles: autocratic and persuasive. The autocratic style involves centralized authority and one-way communication. The persuasive style involves explaining decisions to gain support. The styles require different communication skills and interpersonal skills.