Laissez Faire Management Style

[dicknob]

Hey there,

My teacher has always mentioned that we should keep the management style "Laissez Faire" in the back of our minds in case it is to appear on the exam. I was wondering if I should mention it if the question is more general though, such as "Outline features, advantages and disadvantages of each management style" or should I just stick to the main four?

Thanks

[RobDog]

If a question pops up asking for an outline of each management style, i have no doubt that you should at least acknowledge it, it shouldn't take up much time and would keep you safe from losing marks for something you know.
Much like you're teacher, my teacher always referred to there being 5 main management styles, but with a question asking you to pick an appropriate style, i'm almost certain Laissez-Faire will rarely be appropriate.

[RossiJ]

It's a style none the less, and important one as a matter of fact... don't discourage it just as it doesn't relate to case studies which are related to management not doing their jobs properly ect.

If the unlikely chance that the question does come up to identify or even outline the features in each one, its a necessity that you DO talk about it.

[dinosaur93]

Laissez Fare Management Style offers little direction to subordinates allowing self-innovation and use of creativity to approach their goals and outcome. It can be an advantage as it can be boost morale due to commitment. Laissez Fare is suitable only to those employees who are highly skilled (such as web developing freelancing) and would least be an option for individuals who lack experience and prefer detailed directions and procedures provided by management in approaching its objectives.


Say, if the question ask Laissez Fare Management Style - List of advantages and disadvantages, what else could I put down? 

[RossiJ]

Laissez-fair management style: Management have little to do with the day-to-day running of the business which is predominately done by employees

Decision making – Decentralised
Control – Decentralised
Staff participation – Employees must take responsibility for running the organisation (limited or no management involvement)
Communication – Top-down, bottom-up and lateral (employees inform management of their decisions)
Strong focus on employees

Advantages   
High degree of ownership by employees therefore promotes outstanding results   
Promotes teamwork, motivations, empowerment and job satisfaction therefore an increase in positive corporate culture

Disadvantages
Loss of control by management therefore a decrease in the achievement of objectives
Lack of direction may cause an increase in stress among employees