Max Weber, the father of sociology, has identified three types of leadership. The three types have very different styles and an individual may have a mix of both or could be a bit of all three. Identifying and understanding leadership styles could help in further improvement for both personal and organizational’ success.
Traditional
For Weber, this style of leadership is irrational. It has no written rules since it does not require one. Leaders with this type of leadership follow the customs and strictly want the others to obey their command; hence, the followers are usually fiercely loyal. They can be seen as controlling and overpowering. Also, they are often the ones who prefer to trust their own judgements over those of others. Hence, the input from others is not given importance, which could affect decision-making.
Organizations that require quick decisions or need to maintain strict control are best served by people with a traditional style of leadership. Usually, this style of leadership is run by family-run businesses, kings, dictators, and political leaders. While certain organizations suit this leadership style, it has its downsides. It is definitely not suitable for organizations that are looking to thrive on innovations in these modern days. This is because fresh ideas and perspectives might not be appreciated.
As a leader, one should be able to balance and maintain effective leadership if they want to thrive. If you recognize someone with this type of leadership, no worries, as there are always rooms for improvement. Fostering a transparent and open communication culture will help in making informed decisions. It will involve understandings, feedback, brainstorming, addressing challenges and guides for improvements.
However, it does not mean that it is all bad. It is suitable for the kings or princes, as Prince William and Prince Harry proved that having loyal followers helps them succeed.
Charismatic
Individuals with this leadership know their way to capture people’s attention with their amazing ways to prove their power. They are often devoted to empowering their team within the organization. It can be seen as all positive, but it also has no written rules like the traditional leadership styles. The leader and their team have different tasks to do and often reject their family responsibilities, according to Max Weber. They may also be seen as revolutionaries. Opposing traditional leaders, they reject conventional social obligations and norms since they usually accept changes for the better.
It also has its disadvantages, as charismatic leaders may reject accountability and make poor decisions. They could also engage in unethical behaviour that could threaten team members and organizations, even if it meant succeeding.
Hence, this type of leadership needs more focus on prioritizing tasks and processes over relationships with team members, time management, and operating with a strict structure. To add to that, they have huge trust in their team to do specific tasks, which causes overreliance. It is an amazing trait in leadership. However, this could result in disorganization. Thus, they need to have proper oversight and give guidance when needed.
Having charismatic leaders is amazing to have. Not only can they create a positive and engaging work environment, but with improvements, they could contribute to overall performance, leading to success.
Rational-Legal
It is a form of leadership that is characterized by stability and efficiency. Different from traditional and charismatic leadership, this style of leadership has written rules. For decision-making, it is made based on laws and regulations, not the personal whims of a leader. Since it adheres to laws, the organization under this leadership operates in a systematic manner with legal compliance.
This type of leadership is evident in modern times. It is where individuals are obeying rules due to the legitimacy of the laws and positions. Hence, individuals do not act based on their personal preferences or characteristics. Frequently, it is employed in government institutions, corporations, businesses, non-profits, healthcare, religious organizations and more.
It also has its own challenges, just like other leadership styles. Due to having laws, it may be complex and difficult to change when needed. Effectiveness might also not be of importance due to the focus on compliance. With rules, there will be less flexibility and a loss of creativity and innovation.
Thus, all types of leadership have their own positive qualities and struggles. Wherever you might fit in, every one of them requires continuous improvement. A great leader always looks for improvement for success that has been desired.
