Finding Your Authentic Leadership Style: A Deep Dive
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Chapter 1: Understanding Leadership Styles
Let's delve into the concept of Leadership Styles, shall we?
I was recently preparing for a podcast appearance, and the host expressed a desire to discuss "Leadership Styles." This is a subject I find incredibly engaging!
Officially, depending on which literature you consult, there are numerous styles of leadership one can adopt. Some experts argue there are as many as 17 styles, while others suggest there are 12 or even just 4.
Certain approaches are somewhat traditional and often exclusive, like Authoritarian or Bureaucratic styles, while others, such as Servant or Affiliative methodologies, take a more inclusive stance.
Since each organization, manager, and leader is unique, it’s nearly impossible to declare, “X style is the best!” because that simply isn’t the case.
Leadership should be a dynamic practice. Ideally, it should adapt as our teams continuously change and grow. As leaders, we too are constantly evolving, whether through formal learning or our everyday experiences.
From my perspective, my leadership style is a blend of at least three methodologies, and it is perpetually evolving alongside me!
If I had to define my primary leadership objective, it would be to guide teams in a manner that allows them to surpass my own capabilities and knowledge. I aspire for my teams to outgrow me, just as I hope they will foster the same growth in their own teams.
Understanding your Leadership Style can significantly enhance your effectiveness and inclusivity as a manager, even if you don’t fit neatly into one specific category. Here’s a brief overview of various Leadership Styles: Bureaucratic, Transactional, Authoritarian, Visionary, Pacesetting, Democratic, Coaching, Affiliative, Laissez-faire, Transformational, and Servant.
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👋🏻 If you’re curious about who I am (which is a valid question!), hello! I’m Dani Herrera, and it’s a pleasure to meet you!
💜 As an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Professional and Speaker with over 15 years of global experience in Talent Operations, Recruitment, Leadership, and Management, I focus on deconstructing processes to help organizations foster Inclusive and Equitable Cultures.
🏆 I’ve been recognized as one of Mogul's Top 100 DEI Leaders in both 2021 and 2022, featured in NYC Latinos 40 Under 40, and named Mentor of the Year in 2022. My work has been highlighted by Forbes, Business Insider, and Refinery 29, among others, and I’ve had the privilege of speaking at numerous national and international events.
Learn more about my work and achievements here.
Chapter 2: Debunking Leadership Myths
The first video, "4 Common Myths About Your Authentic Leadership Style," explores common misconceptions about leadership styles and emphasizes the importance of finding your unique approach.
Chapter 3: Discovering Your Leadership Style
In the second video, "How To Find YOUR Leadership Style," you’ll learn actionable strategies to identify and develop your personal leadership style, ensuring that it aligns with your values and goals.