Which leadership style involves making decisions unilaterally?

The leadership style that involves making decisions unilaterally is directing. This style is characterized by a leader making decisions independently and then directing their team or subordinates to carry out those decisions without seeking input or collaboration. This approach is typically effective in situations that require quick decision-making or when the leader possesses more expertise or information than the team members.

Directing is often employed in high-stakes environments or during crises where immediate action is necessary. It contrasts with other leadership styles, such as participating, which emphasizes collaboration and input from team members, or delegating, which assigns responsibilities to others while providing them autonomy to make decisions. Coordinating involves organizing and integrating the efforts of a team but does not typically reflect unilateral decision-making. By understanding the directing style, individuals can recognize its appropriate application in leadership scenarios that demand clear guidance and decisive action.