What is Laissez-faire Leadership Style? Explain any four characteristics of it.

Meaning: It refers to that leadership style in which the leader gives his subordinates complete freedom to make decisions.

Characteristics:

(i) Full Faith in Subordinates: A prominent characteristic of this style is that the managers consider their subordinates capable, active and responsible individuals and have full faith in them.

(ii) Independent Decision-making System: In this style, the management-related decisions are taken by the subordinates instead of the managers. They can, however, consult the managers.

(iii) Decentralisation of Authority: This style is based on the principle of decentralisation. It means that the managers widely distribute their authority to enable every individual to determine his objective and make his plans accordingly. The managers only perform the function of coordination, direction and general control.

(iv) Self-directed, Supervisory and Controlled: After having once explained the objectives, the only job of the manager is to interfere only in adverse situations. The supervision and control is done by the employees themselves.