In which approach does the leader primarily serve as a facilitator rather than a decision-maker?

The facilitative approach is characterized by the leader acting primarily as a facilitator rather than a direct decision-maker. In this style, the leader emphasizes collaboration and teamwork, allowing group members to actively participate in the decision-making process. This approach encourages open dialogue and the sharing of ideas, fostering an environment where team members feel empowered to contribute and take ownership of their roles.

The facilitative leader guides discussions, poses questions to encourage critical thinking, and helps navigate group dynamics. The focus is on facilitating the process rather than dictating solutions, allowing the group to come to a consensus or find a path forward together. This approach is particularly effective in creative or complex environments where multiple perspectives can enhance the quality of decisions and encourage a sense of collective responsibility.

In contrast, other leadership styles, such as autocratic, consultative, and delegative, either involve the leader making decisions independently, seeking input but retaining control, or fully entrusting decision-making to the team, respectively. Each of these approaches diverges from the core concept of facilitation, wherein the leader’s role is to enable rather than direct the team's actions.