Part II | Support and Challenge framework

In our last post, we explored the Support and Challenge Matrix through the lens of teamwork. Now, let’s shift the focus to Leadership Styles.

Here’s a question worth reflecting on: What is it like to be led by you?

Just like the Support and Challenge matrix helps us work with others better, it also reveals the core of different leadership styles.

Let’s break it down:

Abdicator:

Leaders who offer low challenge and low support fall into this category. This type of a leader creates a culture of apathy and low expectation.

Protector:

Leaders who provide high support but low challenge often act as protectors. While their intentions are to help, they unintentionally develop co-dependency, tolerating poor performance and behaviours.

Dominator:

High challenge with low support defines the dominator. These leaders create environments of fear, where mistakes are punished, and control is paramount. These leaders blame others when things go wrong; they judge when their people don’t get things ‘right’, and they control them.

Liberator:

The sweet spot-high support and high challenge- defines the liberator.This leader provides a high level of support and challenge. As a result, they create a space in which their people feel empowered and safe. Here, they act in partnership with their people rather than ruling them. They act with meaning and purpose, and they encourage their team to grasp opportunities presented to them regardless of the outcome.

As you reflect on your leadership style, ask yourself: Are you leading as an abdicator, protector, dominator, or liberator?

(Inspired by The Leadership Coaches)

#DiscoverWithAdi