[c]

This style emanates from the emotional intelligence competencies: empathy, relationship building, communication. The affiliative leader believes ‘people come first’ and consequently tries to create harmony by building strong emotional bonds. The approach will improve communication, as people will begin to share ideas and this will increase inspiration. Flexibility will also be improved as people are given the freedom to do their jobs in the way which they think is most effective.

The affiliative style makes it a good all-round approach, but it is particularly helpful when trying to build harmony, increase morale, improve communication or repair a breakdown in trust. It is probably best used in conjunction with another style, as its emphasis on praise can fail to address poor performance. This approach can also, on its own, fail to give clear direction.

 

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