Autocratic Leadership style

• Under this style of leadership there is an autocratic leader
• The leader is an authoritarian i.e requires and expects strict obedience and authority
• The leader is a dictator
• The leader assumes all the responsibility responsibility
• Communication is mainly one-way (downward communication) in the form of commands and orders
• There is little feedback which usually comes in the form of  acknowledgement and status reports
• The leader can be a tough autocrat or a benevolent/paternalistic autocrat
• She/He makes all the decisions and has all the authority
• There is little to no input from subordinates
• Leader dictates all the processes, methods and goals
• Subordinates are expected to follow orders and execute tasks without question
• It is also known as an autocracy

Advantages

• There is a clear chain of command
• Decision making is quick
• Effective in times of conflict or emergency for example in the uniformed services such as soldiers, the police or fire fighters

Disadvantages

• Group members become dependent on the leader
• Can lead to poor decision making as the decisions depend on the leader’s ability and skills
• Is not suitable for complex decisions
• Can lead to resentment and negative impact on employee morale
• Stifles creativity

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