Suitable leadership styles as the COVID-19 pandemic urges businesses to "go virtual"
Centered Leadership
One person has the overall responsibility for a project from start to end. This leadership style is commonly found in traditional (physical) working environments. In digital environments, a centred leader often coexists with another leadership style.
Emergent Leadership
Several people emerge as leaders either to step in and help with an unexpected task, or because they have expertise in a specific aspect of the project, although they may not have been formally appointed as leaders upfront.
Shared Leadership
Different individuals leading different stages or different aspects of the project. This is often due to their specific area of expertise and it is usually successive in nature, with one leader handing over the baton to another person once they have completed their task.
Co-Leadership
Two or more teammates assume the responsibility for two different tasks (or components of the project) at the same time. Therefore, contrary to shared leadership, co-leadership is simultaneous, rather than successive.
Tip for being a successful leader
1. Be open to new leadership styles that may be different from those found in traditional environments.
Tip for being a successful leader
2. Keep in mind that these leadership styles may work on their own or in combination with one another.
“Leaders of traditional teams who have transitioned into e-leaders should be open to new leadership styles. Although some traditional styles could still be relevant, we should allow team members to take on leadership positions and to work together with other leaders."
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Petros Chamakiotis, PhD