Southwest Airlines Professional Communications Certification Practice Exam

What type of leadership style emphasizes employee participation in decision-making?

1. Authoritarian

2. Collaborative

3. Transactional

4. Democratic

The correct answer is: Democratic

Democratic leadership is characterized by its emphasis on employee participation and collaboration in the decision-making process. In this style, leaders prioritize input from team members, valuing their opinions and ideas, which fosters an environment of trust and openness. This approach encourages team members to share their perspectives, leading to more meaningful decisions that reflect the collective insights of the group. By involving employees in decision-making, a democratic leader not only empowers individuals but also enhances team cohesion and morale. Employees are likely to feel a greater sense of ownership over their work and the outcomes of decisions, which can lead to increased motivation and productivity. This leadership style contrasts with the authoritarian approach, where decisions are made by the leader without input from others, and with the transactional style, which focuses more on exchanges rather than collaboration. The collaborative style is similar but does not fully encompass the structured decision-making processes characteristic of democratic leadership.