The 5 Leadership Styles Every Modern Leader Needs in Their Toolkit

Leadership in 2025 looks different than it did just a few years ago. Teams are more diverse, workplaces are more dynamic, and challenges are more complex. The leaders who thrive today aren’t those who rigidly stick to a single way of leading - they’re the ones who adapt.

Adaptability is no longer optional.

Research shows leaders who shift their approach to meet the needs of their team see higher engagement, better collaboration, and stronger performance. It’s not about choosing a favourite leadership style. It’s about building range - the ability to move seamlessly between styles depending on the situation.

Here are five essential leadership styles every modern leader needs in their toolkit:

1. Visionary Leadership – Inspiring Through a Clear Future

Visionary leaders are storytellers. They paint a vivid picture of what’s possible and inspire people to rally behind it. This style is especially powerful during times of change or uncertainty.

By providing clarity and direction, visionary leaders help their teams understand not just what they’re working towards, but why it matters. It’s about igniting a sense of purpose that drives collective action.

When to use it:

• Launching a new project or strategy
• Leading through transformation or disruption
• Re-energising teams who have lost motivation

2. Coaching Leadership – Growing People, Not Just Results

Coaching leaders focus on unlocking potential rather than simply managing tasks. They ask meaningful questions, provide constructive feedback, and support growth through ongoing development.

Instead of solving every problem themselves, they empower their team to think critically and take ownership of their progress. Over time, this approach builds confidence and resilience while nurturing future leaders.

When to use it:

• Supporting career development and skill growth
• Helping individuals navigate challenges or setbacks
• Building a culture of continuous learning

3. Democratic Leadership – Strengthening Teams Through Collaboration

A democratic leader invites diverse voices to the table, creating an environment where everyone feels heard and valued. Decisions are made collectively, fostering inclusion and ownership.

This style doesn’t mean every choice is made by consensus, but it does ensure the process is transparent and inclusive. It’s especially valuable for complex problems where multiple perspectives lead to stronger solutions.

When to use it:

• Encouraging innovation through shared ideas
• Strengthening team trust and engagement
• Making high-stakes decisions with wide-reaching impact

4. Servant Leadership – Putting People First

Servant leaders prioritise the wellbeing and growth of their people above all else. By fostering trust, loyalty, and psychological safety, they create an environment where individuals can thrive and perform at their best.

This style often shines during challenging times. By leading with empathy and compassion, servant leaders help their teams feel supported, valued, and understood.

When to use it:

• During periods of stress or burnout
• Building or repairing team culture
• Supporting mental health and wellbeing initiatives

5. Transformational Leadership – Driving Innovation and Change

Transformational leaders push boundaries and challenge the status quo. They encourage teams to think bigger, experiment, and innovate beyond what seems possible.

This style is about raising the bar - not just for results, but for creativity and vision. It inspires people to take bold steps, embrace change, and grow both individually and collectively.

When to use it:

• Navigating major organisational change
• Launching innovative projects or initiatives
• Inspiring high performance in ambitious teams

The Real Power Lies in Switching Gears

The most successful leaders don’t lock themselves into one style. Instead, they have the awareness and agility to shift gears based on their team’s needs and the moment at hand.

You might need to be a visionary leader during a strategy session, a servant leader when your team is under pressure, and a coaching leader when developing future talent - all in the same week.

Adaptability isn’t just a skill. It’s the new superpower.

By building a diverse leadership toolkit, you’ll be equipped to lead confidently, inspire growth, and navigate the ever-changing challenges of modern leadership.