Many people will try to tell you that there are a certain number of types of management styles to choose from. Usually people will divided it into 2, 3, or 4 schools of management. For me, however, it is all sort of a continuum. One of the most frequently discussed management issues is degree of authoritarianism.
Some managers are more domineering and while others are more democratic. Even though this distinction is important, it is not the only thing that matters. There are managers who are more involved while other managers are more far-off.
Other managers put more importance on positive response while some keep a lenient approach unless they have something pessimistic to say. These all influence the type of management you use and the results you will get.
Rather than telling my management trainees what types of management I approve of and what I do not approve of, I train them in skills to evaluate the workplace as a whole. A workplace is an organic unit, and the types of management that work in one area will not always work in another.
For example, when overseeing engineers you may want an all business, no-nonsense type of management. Engineers do well with very clear and straightforward instructions, and tend not to mind an autocratic style as much.
When overseeing writers or other creatives, on the other hand, you want a much more interactive type of management. You want to show people that their ideas are valuable and open the floor for an exchange of ideas.
As far as I’m concerned, an excellent manager doesn’t show any allegiance to a specific style of management. Every workplace has different situations that need different types of management. Being flexible with what is at hand is important.
When working with people who need autonomy, give it to them. When working with people who need oversight, give it to them. When your workers need positive feedback, feel free to praise them. When your workers are straying too far from the mark, feel free to criticize them in a constructive manner.
Being a manager is ultimately not about you, but about increasing the productivity and efficiency of your workplace. This requires a thorough understanding of human psychology, as well as knowledge of the goals of your business. By understanding all the different types of management, you can accomplish these goals most effectively.
Article by Chris Bradley, you can learn more about him at his profile
