Business Strategy - Authoritative Leadership

Business Strategy - Authoritative Leadership

James Martin-Harper |



Authoritative leadership is the type of leader that is visionary, confident in their attitude and how they go about their work. They differ from charismatic leadership in one main way, goals. Where charismatic leadership is solely focused on strengthening the ideological cohesion between people, Authoritative leadership is more driven to achieve the goals/targets that they have set.  Their expectations for employees are achieved through the constant motivation and energizing that the leader provides. Being visionary is a unique skill and explains why expectations have to be met, every expectation is a cog in the machine of future planning. Interestingly, contrary to assumption, Authoritative leadership is not just what one could perceive as regimental, but a highly effective strategy to achieve the overarching goal through a process of vigorous determination and verbal logical thinking.

Studies show that Authoritative leadership creates the most positive working environment, the most positive and upbeat place to work. This positive working environment significantly benefits a wide variety of areas within businesses, and there’s a science to back it up. An enjoyable fun working environment causes increased levels of endorphin in the blood, which is correlated to determination, therefore, increasing the one and the other will do the same. A better work environment, happier staff, significantly increased productivity, a better business, and skyrocketed income.

However, authoritative leadership may not be the best style for continuity, as it may not be necessary. For example, if a new manager is placed within an existing team of professionals to lead, it may be hard for them to express their vision straight away. Therefore, it would be better to first ensure that there is a relationship between themselves and their colleagues as beginning with authoritative leadership from the get-go may cause conflict. In addition to this, the environment is new, and though you may be placed in a position of power to change it, it's best to learn the strengths and weaknesses first.

An example of an authoritative leader is Bill Gates. He saw where the future of computers was heading and used his visionary quality to position himself, and his business, in an optimum position. 45 years later, Microsoft still dominates the computer industry, despite Bill Gates taking a step back. He has since set upon his other visions/aspirations, one of which is eradicating the world of poverty and Aids by 2030 persuading other billionaires to support the cause