Participative

A participative leader views group members as equals, welcomes their opinions, summarizes points that have been raised, and identifies problems that need discussion rather than dictating solutions. This style works well when group members are competent and motivated to take on their tasks but also benefit from their leader’s involvement and feedback. Participative leaders do give some assistance and support to group members, but unlike directive or supportive leaders, they tend to guide and facilitate group discussion rather than giving direct instructions or motivational messages. Many online topic forums and blogs are moderated by participative leaders—they allow discussion among members of the group to take off in many directions, and they contribute right along with everyone else. But they also step in when needed to remind inappropriately contributing members of the purpose of the discussion or the accepted rules of discourse.