Final answer:
Effective leaders demonstrate willingness, flexibility, professionalism, and resourcefulness, and can adapt their leadership style to meet the diverse needs of their followers and organizational objectives. The choice of leadership style (democratic, laissez-faire, or authoritarian) may depend on the context and individual follower characteristics.
Step-by-step explanation:
The behaviors of an effective leader are multifaceted and can vary depending on the situation, organization's mission, and the needs of the team members. An effective leader often demonstrates the ability to remain willing to go above and beyond for their team, shows flexibility in the face of changing priorities, and conveys a strong interest in the organization's mission. They are professional when responding to feedback and are proactive in offering solutions to problems. Effective leaders try to solve problems independently before seeking support and respect the authority of their managers while staying accountable for their actions. Active participation in meetings, embracing new projects, and being resourceful are also key behaviors of successful leaders. They actively seek out ways to contribute to their manager's priorities and provide support to their team members where needed.
Leadership styles can differ widely, with democratic, laissez-faire, and authoritarian being three primary types. Each style can be effective in various contexts, and individuals may have a personal preference for different styles in different areas of their life, such as the classroom, workplace, or sports team. For instance, a democratic leader may excel in environments that require consensus, while an authoritarian leader may be necessary in high-pressure situations where quick decision-making is crucial. The laissez-faire leader might be ideal in situations where team members are highly motivated and capable of self-management.
In terms of the relationship between leaders and their followers, research has shown that different characteristics of followers, such as their degree of extroversion or their need for leadership, can impact the effectiveness of a leadership style. For example, followers with a high degree of extroversion may need more interaction with their leaders to function well, whereas those with a high need for structure might prefer a well-organized environment with clear expectations. Leaders must therefore be mindful of the individual needs of their followers when choosing their leadership approach.