Effective leadership is not just about managing a team; it’s about finding a balance between motivating individuals and achieving meaningful results. Leaders who can adapt their style to meet both the needs of their team and the demands of the organisation are more likely to inspire loyalty, foster innovation, and drive success.
One model that can help in this journey is the Blake/Mouton leadership grid, which outlines different leadership styles based on two key factors: concern for people and concern for results. While the model provides useful insight, the true value comes from developing a leadership style that balances both aspects, tailored to your unique strengths and the needs of your team.
The Different Leadership Styles
Impoverished Leadership: When leaders neglect both people and results, the outcome is disengagement and low morale. This style often leads to poor productivity and a lack of direction.
Produce-or-Perish Leadership: This results- driven approach prioritises outcomes above all else. While it may lead to short-term results, it often sacrifices employee motivation, engagement, and creativity.
Country Club Leadership: In this people- focused style, the priority is maintaining harmony and comfort within the team. However, over time, this can lead to a lack of direction and purpose, leaving the team unmotivated to achieve key organisational goals.
Middle of the Road Leadership: Here, leaders balance concern for people and results in a way that ensures steady performance. While effective, there’s still room for improvement in driving high performance and deep engagement.
Team Leadership: The ideal blend of concern for both people and results. Leaders in this category are able to create a clear vision, foster a sense of belonging, and ensure that each team member is motivated to contribute to achieving shared goals.
Why Leadership Development Matters
No matter where you fall on the leadership spectrum, the key to becoming an exceptional leader is growth and development. Leadership isn’t static—it evolves with experience, reflection, and a commitment to improvement. Cultivating your leadership style allows you to motivate your team, foster collaboration, and deliver results that matter.
Develop Your Leadership Style
Reflect on how well you balance your concern for both people and results. Are you inspiring your team to be their best while driving the outcomes your organisation needs?
Take Action
Do you have leaders in the business who need to focus their development? Now’s the time to contact us to schedule a 1:1 consultation about how we help leaders across the globe unlock their full leadership potential.
