Autocratic Leadership - A Necessity in Some Cases

 

Autocratic Leadership - A Necessity in Some Cases



Authoritarian leadership, sometimes referred to as autocratic leadership, is a style in which leaders exercise total control and authority, making choices and managing staff members with little input from them. This strategy is compared to an ER surgeon acting quickly when things are changing quickly. Autocratic leaders make decisions based only on their instincts, expertise, and moral principles; they do not consult the team for advice. This approach works well in circumstances like emergencies or working with inexperienced teams where flawless performance, quick decision-making, and deadline-driven tasks are required. It might not be appropriate, though, for assignments that call for creative thinking, relationship-building, or team development. 




Autocratic leadership has benefits and drawbacks. It is illustrated by clearly established roles, hierarchical structures, direct evaluations, and a structured work environment. Positively, it guarantees a highly organized workflow, expedites results, boosts productivity and efficiency, and gives clear direction. On the other hand, it does not encourage group participation or acknowledge employee feedback, which could lower staff morale and put a greater strain on the leader.

To succeed as an autocratic leader, one needs skills such as communication, ability to handle pressure, people management, decision-making, stress management, problem-solving, and adaptability. Avoiding the pitfalls of excessive control, leaders can actively listen, establish trust by involving the team in less critical tasks, and recognize accomplishments to foster a collaborative and creative culture. Notable examples of autocratic leaders include Sam Walton (Walmart), Ray Kroc (McDonald's), Roger Ailes (Fox News), and Helen Gurley Brown (Cosmopolitan magazine). Autocratic leadership finds its place in industries where quick, efficient decision-making is crucial, such as construction, manufacturing, and the military. Overall, a good leader, whether autocratic or not, should embody traits like honesty, self-awareness, courage, respect, empathy, and gratitude.

Before reading this article, I thought that Autocratic Leadership style is not good in any case. I had a very negative image of it. But my views changed when the example of an ER surgeon was given. It is obvious that the ER surgeon will lead and direct the whole team in an operation theatre, and most probably he won't ask other staff members for their opinions. So in some fast paced environments, Autocratic Leadership is the best suited.

Reference

Emeritus. (2023, July 24). What is Autocratic Leadership & How Does it Work in a Business Environment? Emeritus Online Courses. https://emeritus.org/blog/leadership-what-is-autocratic-leadership/



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