What leadership style involves a manager making decisions independently after consulting with staff?

The consultative leadership style is characterized by a manager who seeks input and feedback from team members before making final decisions. This approach fosters an environment of collaboration and demonstrates respect for the expertise and opinions of employees. While the manager ultimately retains the authority to make decisions, by involving staff in the consultation process, it enhances commitment and ownership among team members. This style can lead to better-informed decisions, as the manager has access to diverse perspectives and insights.

In contrast, other leadership styles listed do not align with this particular decision-making process. Participative leadership also encourages collaboration but typically involves shared decision-making, whereas consultative leadership implies that the final decision still rests with the manager. Laissez faire leadership takes a hands-off approach, allowing employees to operate independently without managerial input. Autocratic leadership confines decision-making solely to the manager without soliciting staff opinions, which fundamentally differs from the consultative approach.