Authoritative leaders

The commander leadership style is defined by its transactional or autocratic nature, characterized by a strict, results-oriented approach. Commanders are known for setting clear goals and directly addressing both successes and failures to align with business objectives. They motivate their teams through explicit incentives and penalties, fostering rule compliance and standardization.

This leadership style shines in crisis situations where quick, accurate decisions are critical, making it particularly effective in sectors like finance and healthcare, where safety and efficiency are paramount.

However, the commander approach has its downsides:

• They often say "no" to maintain focus, which can distance them from their team
• Their emphasis on obedience may curb genuine engagement and limit creativity
• This can pose challenges in environments that thrive on innovation^[1]