Which are the three leadership styles?

• A. Autocratic, Consultative, Laissez-faire
• B. Guiding, Supervising, Implementing
• C. Delegating, Participating, Directing
• D. Leading, Directing, Coaching

Answer: (C)

This question centers on how leadership style changes to fit what followers need. In this approach, leaders move through Directing, Participating, and Delegating as people gain experience and confidence. Directing is when the leader provides clear instructions and close supervision, which helps newcomers know exactly what to do. Participating shifts more decision-making into the team, with the leader offering support and collaborating as capabilities grow. Delegating frees the team to take ownership, with minimal guidance, once members are ready to handle tasks independently. This progression shows leadership adapting to the team rather than sticking to one fixed method. Other groupings mix terms that don’t map as neatly onto this three-stage progression of guiding, sharing decision-making, and transferring responsibility.