Democratic Leaders

Also called: Participative or Facilitative Leadership

Democratic leadership is exactly what it sounds like — the leader makes decisions based on each team member’s input. Although a leader makes the final call, each employee has an equal say in a project’s direction.

Democratic leaders often have the following characteristics:

• Inclusive.

• Collaborative.

• Effective communicator.

• Empowering

• Supportive and empathetic.

• Trust-building.

• Emotionally intelligent.

Why This Leadership Style Works

This leadership style resembles how leaders often make decisions in company board meetings. For example, a democratic leader might give the team a few decision-related options in a company board meeting.

They could then open a discussion about each option. After a discussion, this leader might consider the board's thoughts and feedback, or they might open this decision up to a vote.

The democratic leadership style is one of the most effective because it encourages everyone to participate in all processes, share their opinions, and know that you will hear them. It also encourages employees to be engaged because they know you will hear their feedback. Team members feeling like they have space to participate can also increase employee empowerment, motivation, and participation.

Potential Challenges

Reaching a consensus can take considerable time, resources, and communication with a democratic style. It can also impact decision-making because some team members may not have the right expertise to make critical decisions.