Which leadership style involves making decisions without consulting team members?

The leadership style that involves making decisions without consulting team members is autocratic leadership. This approach is characterized by the leader’s tendency to retain as much power and decision-making authority as possible. Autocratic leaders often give clear directives, expect compliance, and do not seek input or collaboration from their team members. This can be effective in situations where quick decisions are needed or where the leader has a better understanding of the task than the team. However, it can also lead to low morale and reduced innovation if team members feel their voices are not valued or heard.

Democratic leadership encourages collaboration and the inclusion of team members in the decision-making process, while participative leadership and free-rein leadership both emphasize team engagement and autonomy, contrasting sharply with the autocratic approach.