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9609 · 7.3.1

Leadership flashcards

Revision flashcards for Cambridge 9609 Leadership (syllabus 7.3.1). Flip, recall, then mark a real past-paper question.

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    Leadership vs management?

    Leadership = vision, inspiration; management = planning, control (2.2.1, 2.3.1).

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    Key leadership tasks?

    Direction, alignment, motivation, change, representation.

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    Impact on culture?

    Leader behaviour models norms — ethical or toxic culture spreads.

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    Impact on change?

    Change fails without credible leader champion (6.2).

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    Autocratic leadership?

    Quick decisions; low participation — crisis or military context.

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    Democratic leadership?

    Consultation builds buy-in; slower decisions.

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    Laissez-faire?

    Hands-off — suits expert self-motivated teams.

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    Stakeholder trust?

    Transparent leadership protects reputation (1.5).

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    What is an autocratic leadership style?

    A style where the leader makes all decisions centrally without consultation. Communication is top-down. It is most effective in crises or with unskilled workers on simple tasks.

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    Define democratic leadership.

    A participative style where the leader encourages employee involvement in decision-making. It can boost morale and lead to better decisions, but may be slow.

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    What are the risks of a laissez-faire leadership style?

    Risks include lack of direction, poor coordination, potential for internal conflict, and failure to meet objectives if employees are not self-motivated or highly skilled.

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    What is the core principle of situational leadership?

    The idea that there is no single 'best' leadership style. Effective leaders adapt their style to suit the specific situation, considering factors like the team's competence and the nature of the task.

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    How does a leader influence organisational culture?

    Through their vision, values, communication style, decision-making processes, and the behaviours they reward and tolerate. They act as a role model for the desired culture.