Topic > Authority and Authority: The Source of Authority

A leader will be interested in the subordinate's opinion and, in general, is focused on ensuring that communication is based on discussion. Collaboration and feedback are typically the building blocks of a leader's communication style. A good leader should focus on emotional intelligence and the ability to not only speak, but also listen to what the subordinate says. Since the goal of leadership is to change things, communication is often more about inspiring subordinates and setting an example. A leader doesn't say, "Do this," but focuses more on showing how things could or should be done. In terms of delegation, leaders not only delegate responsibility, but also authority at various levels. A leader might provide guidance on the overall goal, but allow the subordinate to find his or her own way to achieve it. Therefore, there is delegation in leader communication too, but it tends to be a rather more in-depth form of delegation and not just an arrangement of tasks to be done. While a boss delegates responsibility to subordinates, a leader distributes authority. The leader does not feel the need to control everything, but is comfortable giving up power to himself