Alexandra is tasked to organize the new wing of the hospital. She was given the authority to do as she deems fit. She is aware that the director of nursing has substantial trust and confidence in her capabilities, communicates through downward and upward channels, and usually uses the ideas and opinions of her staff. Which of the following is her style of management?
A. Benevolent –authoritative
B. Consultative
C. Exploitive-authoritative
D. Participative
Correct Answer: B. Consultative
A consultative manager is almost like a participative manager. The participative manager has complete trust and confidence in the subordinates, always uses the opinions and ideas of subordinates, and communicates in all directions. Consultative leadership is a leadership style that targets team building and uses the skills of others to create plans and make decisions. Leaders consult with their team to obtain their suggestions and opinions to help them make informed and strategic decisions.
Option A: In the benevolent-autocratic leadership style, the manager has condescending confidence and trust in subordinates, motivates with rewards and some punishments, permits some upward communication, solicits some ideas and opinions from subordinates, and allows some delegation of decision making but with close policy control.
Option C: In the exploitative-authoritative leadership style, the manager has no confidence or trust in subordinates. Subordinates feel no freedom to discuss things about the job with their superiors. In solving job problems, the manager seldom gets the ideas and opinions of subordinates.
Option D: Participative leadership is a style of leadership in which all members of the organization work together to make decisions. Participative leadership is also known as democratic leadership, as everyone is encouraged to participate. The participative leadership decision-making process can take many forms, but the key element is collective input from all members of the organization.