278 Part 3 Group and Organizational Communicationand desired outcomes. For example, the leader of a
police squad—like Ray Holt, discussed in the chap-
ter opener—would instruct his team specifically as
to how they should handle their paperwork or fol-
low complicated regulations.Supportive
A supportive leader attends to group members’
emotional and relational needs. This style is espe-
cially helpful when members feel frustrated with
their task or with each other. Supportive leaders
might stress the importance of positive relationships
in the group, reminding members of the group’s
importance, and expressing appreciation for mem-
bers’ talents and work ethic. Consider Tim Gunn
of Project Runway. As a leader and mentor figure to
the aspiring designers, he helps them not only visualize their designs and talk
through their frustrations but also encourages team members to communicate
with each other, listen to each other, and “make it work.” He is always profuse in
his praise, and even when a particular design doesn’t impress him, he is encour-
aging and positive in his criticism.Participative
A participative leader views group members as equals, welcomes their opinions,
summarizes points that have been raised, and identifies problems that need dis-
cussion rather than dictating solutions. This style works well when group mem-
bers are competent and motivated to take on their tasks but also benefit from
their leader’s involvement and feedback. Participative leaders do give some assis-
tance and support to group members, but unlike directive or supportive lead-
ers, they tend to guide and facilitate group discussion rather than giving direct
instructions or motivational messages. Many online topic forums and blogs are
moderated by participative leaders—they allow discussion among members of
the group to take off in many directions, and they contribute right along with
everyone else. But they also step in when needed to remind inappropriately
contributing members of the purpose of the discussion or the accepted rules of
discourse.Laissez-Faire
The laissez-faire leader, whom some call a “hands-off ” or delegating leader, is
the leader who gives up some degree of power or control and gives that power to
team members. This style is the absence of involved leadership—the leader trusts
others to handle their own responsibilities, does not take part in the group’s
discussions or work efforts, and provides feedback only when asked. Parks Direc-
tor Ron Swanson of Parks and Recreation is a hilarious parody of this style of
leadership—he is a die-hard libertarian who believes that his role as a govern-
ment employee is to “do as little as possible.” Although it may seem like a lack
of leadership, the laissez-faire leader can actually be effective, particularly withLAW AND ORDER’S
Lieutenant Van Buren never
leaves her detectives hanging;
she gives them specific and
thorough directions for every
step of a case. ©NBC/Photofest