With 25 years of business meetings under my belt, it still always intrigues me how leaders show up, writes Paul Ali.

After thousands of meetings, from boardrooms to 1-2-1s, I’ve seen every style of leadership – the dictator, the one who wants to be the loudest and most important voice in the room, and at the other end of the spectrum, the leader who just wants to keep everyone happy. I’ve also seen the same person show up with a different leadership style on a different day.

Many leadership books and articles state that all managers fall into one of four main leadership styles: Autocratic, Democratic, Laissez Faire or Transformational. However, there is a fifth style becoming ever more prevalent in today’s corporate world, which may be the most powerful of them all.

The Collaborative Leader

Collaborative leadership involves sharing power, authority and responsibility with others. It’s based on the idea that no one person has all the answers, and that the best solutions come from diverse perspectives and collective wisdom.

Far from having the loudest voice in the room, collaborative leaders create an environment where everyone can speak openly, contribute and learn from each other. Rather than dictating a plan, they set the vision and facilitate the process of co-creating it with the team.

Collaborative leaders should not only be good at speaking and influencing people, but also at listening and learning. They listen actively to their team and seek to understand their perspective. They do not interrupt or judge, instead asking open questions. The collaborative leader shows respect and curiosity, and fosters trust and better rapport with their team.

A critical attribute for any effective collaborative leader is a clear vision of the desired outcome, which should be their main priority. They need to determine what the project aims to accomplish, understand the ultimate business goal and define what success looks like. By creating the right environment, providing autonomy and supporting empowerment, these leaders ensure their teams collaborate efficiently and thrive.

I believe this leadership style benefits both the leader and the team. A successful leader builds trust, respect and engagement, empowering team members. When people feel they can contribute and be heard, creativity and innovation thrive. An engaged team with a shared goal gains powerful momentum, all directed by an effective leader.

Consider your own personal experiences and major accomplishments in business. Were these achievements the result of just one individual’s efforts, planning and actions? Or was there a committed team engaged and working enthusiastically towards a shared goal?

Collaborative leadership is a powerful way to lead in the 21st century, where the challenges and opportunities can be complex and dynamic. By practicing this style, you can empower your team, unleash their potential and achieve your goals together.

I frequently reflect on this question and urge you to do the same: What kind of leader am I today, and what kind of leader do I aspire to be tomorrow?