What defines democratic leadership?

Democratic leadership is characterized by the active involvement of team members in the decision-making process. Seeking the views of employees helps to foster a sense of belonging and empowerment within the team. This leadership style values collaboration and encourages open communication, allowing leaders to gather diverse perspectives and insights. By incorporating employee input, democratic leaders create an environment of trust and respect, which can lead to higher job satisfaction and increased motivation among team members.

This approach contrasts sharply with other leadership styles that may prioritize top-down decision-making without employee input or those that delegate all decisions without retaining any guidance or oversight. In a truly democratic setting, while leaders still have the ultimate responsibility for making decisions, they rely on their team's knowledge and skills, promoting a culture where contributions are valued and considered.