An underlying theme of our discussion of leadership styles is that there is no one best or most effective leadership style. A study of 3,000 executives revealed that leaders who get the best results do not rely on one style. Instead, they use several different styles in one week, such as being autocratic in some situations and democratic in others.

Another consideration is the national culture in which the leadership takes place. The organizational culture also influences which leadership style will be tolerated and effective. A friendly, collaborative culture calls for more of a consensus style of leadership. In contrast, in a perform-or-perish culture, a more directive or autocratic leadership style will be effective.

The leader–member exchange (LMX) theory is that the leader establishes different quality relationships with each group member. Part of establishing a high-quality relationship would be for the leader to vary his or her style to meet the needs of each subordinate.