Own Your Leadership Blog: Stories and Real Talk for Leaders
Why Great Leaders Flex Their Leadership Styles
When I first stepped into a formal leadership role, I thought asking questions was a way to connect. Standing awkwardly at the photocopier, I asked a colleague about recent assessment changes – only to have her think I was being judgemental. That moment taught me a powerful lesson: effective leadership isn’t just about curiosity or authority – it’s about flexing your leadership style to match the situation and the person.
Goleman’s six leadership styles show us that the right approach depends on trust, context, and connection. Sometimes we lead with coaching, sometimes with vision, and sometimes with an affiliative style to build rapport first. Knowing when and how to switch is what makes leadership truly effective.
