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Original article

Parenting Styles, Management & Strategy

Key takeaway

• For entrepreneurs: Adopt an authoritative management style that balances high responsiveness with high demandingness to foster assertive, self-reliant teams capable of executing effective strategies.
• For investors: Look for companies with leadership that demonstrates an authoritative approach, as this management style is more likely to produce successful outcomes and sustainable growth.

Summary

Roger Martin draws a parallel between parenting styles and management approaches, particularly in the context of strategy development. He outlines three styles: permissive (lackadaisical), authoritarian, and authoritative. Martin argues that the authoritative style, characterized by high responsiveness and high demandingness, is the most effective for both parenting and management. This approach involves clear rules and expectations, two-way communication, and joint problem-solving. The article emphasizes the importance of striking a balance between providing direction and fostering initiative, especially in strategy formulation.

Insights

• The authoritative management style combines high responsiveness with high demandingness.
• Permissive (lackadaisical) and authoritarian styles are both detrimental to organizational success.
• Effective strategy development requires a balance between providing structure and encouraging independent thinking.
• Managers should set clear expectations while engaging in two-way communication with their teams.
• The authoritative approach helps prevent the infantilization of managers and promotes accountability.
• Confidence and patience are crucial qualities for maintaining an authoritative management style.
• Strategic Choice Chartering is an important skill for authoritative style strategists.

Implications

• Organizations should assess and potentially adjust their management styles to align with the authoritative approach.
• Leadership development programs should focus on cultivating authoritative management skills.
• Companies may need to restructure decision-making processes to encourage more two-way communication.