5. Collaborative Management Style
Collaborative management style is based on the philosophy that two heads are better than one. Managers using this style share ideas and problems, and encourage employees to participate regardless of their level or job title — by sharing thoughts, concerns, suggestions and solutions — to help the business grow.
Using this style, a leader retains decision-making authority, but gives much more weight and credit to the opinions and ideas of others.
Pros and Cons of Collaborative Management Style
- A benefit of this style is that it makes employees feel like ‘part of’ the business and encourages them to contribute their best ideas and their best selves at work
- A downside of this style is not all employee ideas are good, and you have to be a master at facilitation to prevent hurt feelings when you choose to go a different route
How To Know If Collaborative Management Style Is Right For You
If you are in a highly creative industry this style might work best to encourage employees to contribute their enthusiasm, passion, and ideas to the business.
In addition, this style is great if you’ve hired industry experts to work for you, such as in many technology-based industries, where you need ‘all brains’ to contribute to your business success and everyone in the business is equally qualified to participate.
