Leaders can be categorised into those who have a desire for either dominance or prestige. So writes Emily Stone, reporting on research that has just gone to publication from John Maner and Charleen Case of the Kellogg Institute. You can find the article here.
From their research, Maner and Case found that typically people are motivated either by their desire for dominance or prestige. Neither is any better or worse than the other, but each works best in different circumstances. Typically, leaders have the capabilities for both types, and effective leaders are those who know when to switch between the two types, depending on the circumstances and situation.
A desire for dominance leaders typically led by intimidation and coercion, and demand following rather than inspire it. But they are also decisive and swift decision makers. Unfortunately, they are also characterised as likely to sacrifice the best interests of the group in order to retain their power.
Prestige seeking leaders will display their skills and knowledge, convincing people that they are worth following. They are known for being able to foster creativity and innovation in their teams, but they are also prone to avoid making the right decision in order to continue being liked. They are reluctant to give the hard feedback required at times.
You might be a dominant type leader if you do most of the talking in meetings, and lower your voice when talking. But beware, people often mistake you talking for competence, just because you sound like you know what you are doing. Time reveals the truth. Alternatively, you could be a prestige style leader if you listen more than you talk and can empathise with your employees who are able to find innovative and creative solutions to issues.
Stone points out at the end of her article that Maner and Case remind readers the best leaders are those that are able to switch between the two types as situations and circumstances change.
So which type of leader are you? Most importantly, are you able to adapt? The Avondale Business School can help you and your team develop leadership skills – find out how by contacting Warrick Long at the Avondale Business School.
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