What is the best way to lead a group? Should you accept input from the members or rule with an iron fist? Do you focus mainly on the task at hand or help resolve relationship problems? It turns out that there is no one “best” style of leadership. Rather, scholars argue that effective group leaders, whether they’re leading alone or sharing power with someone else in the group, adapt their leadership styles to the needs of the group or the situation at hand. Five possible styles are discussed here—directive, supportive, participative, laissez-faire, and achievement oriented—each of which works best under different conditions (Gouran, 2003; Pavitt, 1999).