Great Leaders Collaborate Rather Than Command
What Kind of Leader Are You?
Strong leadership is more than just holding a title—it’s about guiding teams toward success in a way that fosters trust, engagement, and innovation. Unfortunately, many managers focus solely on task execution rather than investing in the development of their teams. True leadership, however, requires a different approach—one rooted in collaboration, strategic thinking, and shared problem-solving.
To illustrate different leadership approaches, let’s consider a common scenario from the services industry: client relationships. The way a company interacts with its clients is often a direct reflection of its internal leadership style.
The Collaborative Leader
Consider a client who values expertise, actively participates in strategic discussions, and then steps back to allow professionals to execute their work. They ask insightful questions and provide support while maintaining confidence in the process.
This mirrors the leadership style of effective managers. Collaborative leaders bring their teams into the decision-making process early, encourage diverse perspectives, and trust their employees to carry out tasks autonomously. They create an environment where individuals feel empowered to contribute ideas and take ownership of their work, leading to greater motivation and better outcomes.
The Directive Leader
On the other end of the spectrum is a client who provides rigid directives, demands rapid execution, and remains deeply involved at every stage of the process. They exert control over every detail, leaving little room for discussion or innovation.
Leaders who take this approach often struggle with team engagement. When employees are given instructions without the opportunity to contribute to decision-making, they become disengaged. Over time, creativity diminishes, problem-solving skills weaken, and teams begin to operate in a reactive rather than proactive manner.
The Impact of Leadership Style on Team Performance and Culture
Leadership styles significantly influence team performance, morale, and overall workplace culture. A directive, top-down approach may seem efficient in the short term, but it ultimately limits innovation and prevents teams from reaching their full potential.
By contrast, a collaborative leadership style creates an environment where employees feel valued and invested in the company’s success. When individuals have a voice in strategic discussions, they develop a sense of ownership over their work, leading to greater job satisfaction and stronger business results.
How to Develop a More Collaborative Leadership Style
For those looking to shift toward a more collaborative leadership approach, consider these key strategies:
Engage Your Team Early: Involve employees in decision-making at the outset of projects rather than presenting fully formed plans with no room for input.
Encourage Open Dialogue: Foster an environment where team members feel comfortable sharing ideas, raising concerns, and offering solutions.
Trust Your Team: Avoid micromanagement by allowing employees the autonomy to execute their work while providing support as needed.
Promote Transparency: Be open about business challenges and invite your team to participate in problem-solving efforts. Employees are more engaged when they understand the bigger picture.
Measure Twice, Cut Once: Spend time on pre-planning, setting clear roles and responsibilities, and ensuring alignment before execution. A well-prepared team is more efficient and less likely to encounter misalignment down the road.
Invest in Leadership Development
Transforming leadership style requires ongoing effort and self-awareness. Many professionals struggle with transitioning from an authoritative approach to a collaborative one due to deep-seated habits or workplace cultures emphasizing control over trust.
Executive coaching provides a structured path forward for leaders looking to refine their approach and develop the skills needed to foster high-performing teams. My Executive Coaching Program is designed to help leaders at all levels build confidence, enhance strategic thinking, and cultivate a leadership style that drives both individual and organizational success.
Great leadership is not about having all the answers—it’s about creating the conditions for others to thrive. By fostering collaboration, building trust, and encouraging strategic problem-solving, leaders can create workplaces where teams are motivated, engaged, and poised for success.
Jaime Gennaro is a seasoned business consultant and coach with 25 years of experience helping companies achieve sustainable growth and leadership success. She has held leadership roles in marketing and operational strategy across various industries, including tech startups and creative agencies. Jaime specializes in business coaching for entrepreneurs and guiding leaders in balancing personal and professional growth. She focuses on reducing burnout, achieving business clarity, and developing entrepreneurial leadership strategies for long-term success.
Learn more about how executive coaching can support your growth: Practica Consulting Executive Coaching Program.
