3 Leadership styles we won’t see in the future
Over the years, we’ve seen leadership in many different forms.
From old school command and control to new age delegation and lift off, what worked for organisations 10 years ago is no longer hitting the mark.
As we head into the future, the workforce is continuing to diversify in more ways than one; think age, gender, lifestyle, skills, experience and values… We’re breaking free from traditional models, and globally shifting to a new world of work. The pull for leadership to become more boundless in their approach is only growing.
People want to be led by modern leaders in the new world of work.
In order to keep your team motivated, aligned and fulfilled and your organisation future-ready, it’s important to keep your finger on the pulse.
The first step is being candid with yourself about whether your current style is becoming less needed in society. Here are the three leadership styles that are NOT standing the test of time.
1. The ‘military jacket’ leader
This is the leader that wants the best for their organisation, but tends to be the singular voice of decision making.
They carry the weight of the team’s responsibilities, but their vision is tunnelled down to one perspective and one approach. This way of working can be simple and efficient (and required in high-risk industries like emergency services), but is often expressed through “command and control” and micromanagement. People learn to follow instructions without questioning how things can be changed or improved, creating little room for creativity, innovation and purposeful impact.
How this shows up:
Resistance to change
Lack of independence and motivation
Fear around meeting expectations
As a collective, we’re asking for more meaning and more connection to the work we do. We want to feel our voice matters and that we’re heard by the people around us.
The new world of work is calling for leaders who are a little more ENERGISING, leaders who drive a vision that’s shared by the whole team. They recognise the unique skillsets and motivations of each individual and spend time rallying the troops to reach an outcome that’s meaningful and impactful.
2. The ‘wooly gloves’ leader
This is the leader that has an overall awareness of what is happening in the workplace but is not directly involved.
They trust their team to do a good job, but often aren’t present or up-to-speed enough to help problem solve, provide support, or chip in where required. While these leaders create a strong sense of autonomy and self-direction, being too hands-off can lead to employees feeling overwhelmed and unsupported.
How this shows up
Overwhelm and burnout
Blurry direction
Lack of clear accountabilities
As a collective, we’re craving more autonomy and independence, but there’s a fine balance between micromanagement and constant interference, and taking a backseat and not providing enough direction.
The new world of work is calling for ENGAGED leaders who understand the nuts and bolts of the business and aren’t afraid to put their hands in the dirt and help carry the load of their team. Leaders who are visible, accessible and accountable every step of the way.
3. The ‘fast-fashion’ leader.
This is the leader who is focused on delivering the best outcome, but will max out the use of their resources to get there (and that includes their people).
Rather than sourcing and investing in aligned people who want to grow with the company, these leaders are great at finding people with the best skills to quickly plug a capability gap. But more often than not, these people tend to leave the organisation, restarting the search cycle.
How this shows up
Quick turnover
A high achievement mindset
No work-life integration
As a collective, work-life balance or work-life integration is no longer a luxury, it’s essential. People are seeking out cultures that supports their needs, interests, and lifestyles outside of work.
The new world of work needs leaders focused on building a culture of SUSTAINABILITY, who will prioritise the health of their people before the health of their business. Leaders who future proof their talent pipelines by sharing a uniquely attractive EVP, and seeing their people as an investment rather than a replaceable resource.
We’re entering into a new season; the new world of work is on the hunt for modern leaders, with a boundless approach to leading their people.
