Flat hierarchies require a different kind of leadership style. Traditional top-down management doesn’t work well in these environments. Instead, leaders should be more like coaches, fostering a culture of trust, promoting open communication, and encouraging employees to take ownership of their work. This approach, also known as servant leadership, is about supporting and empowering the team rather than directing it.
In a flat hierarchy, everyone is expected to lead in some way. This requires a shift in mindset from individual competition to collective cooperation. Leaders must be able to balance the need for control with the desire for autonomy, creating a space where employees can freely express their ideas and opinions.
Trust is a critical component in this leadership style. Leaders must trust their team members to do their jobs and make decisions. In return, employees must trust their leaders to support them and have their best interests at heart. Building this mutual trust takes time and effort, but it is essential for the success of a flat hierarchy.
Furthermore, leaders must be able to deal with ambiguity and uncertainty. In a flat hierarchy, there are no clear lines of authority, so leaders must be comfortable with taking risks and making decisions in a fluid environment. They must also be adaptable and flexible, ready to change course when necessary.
Lastly, leaders in a flat hierarchy must be excellent communicators. They need to clearly articulate the company’s vision and goals, and ensure that everyone understands their role in achieving them. They must also be good listeners, open to feedback and willing to engage in constructive dialogue.
Go to source article: http://www.fastcompany.com/3046371/the-new-rules-of-work/what-kind-of-leadership-is-needed-in-flat-hierarchies