Training Plan: Understanding Autocratic Leadership

Duration: 30 minutes

Pre-session Planning Time: 30 minutes 

Materials Needed:

• Presentation slides or materials for visual aids (optional, you can use our other materials hyperlinked for ease)
• Handouts (optional)

Training Agenda:

Introduction (4 minutes)

• Welcome the participant to the 1-2-1 training session.
• Explain the purpose or objective of the session: "To explore the autocratic leadership style, its characteristics, and its applications in leadership."

Definition of Autocratic Leadership (5 minutes)

• Provide a clear definition of autocratic leadership, emphasising its key features:
  • Centralised decision-making by the leader
  • Limited input or participation from team members
  • Strict adherence to the leader's directives and authority

Characteristics of Autocratic Leaders (5 minutes)

• Discuss the common traits and behaviours associated with autocratic leaders, such as:
  • High control and authority
  • Clear hierarchy and power structure
  • Quick decision-making
  • Limited delegation of tasks and responsibilities

Benefits of Autocratic Leadership (4 minutes)

• Highlight the potential advantages of the autocratic leadership style, including:
  • Speed in decision-making
  • Clarity in roles and responsibilities
  • Applicability in crisis situations or when expertise is required

Drawbacks of Autocratic Leadership (4 minutes)

• Discuss the disadvantages and limitations of autocratic leadership, such as:
  • Reduced team morale and motivation
  • Limited creativity and innovation
  • Potential for resistance and dissatisfaction among team members

When to Apply Autocratic Leadership (4 minutes)

• Explain the situations or contexts where autocratic leadership may be appropriate, such as:
  • Emergency situations
  • Strict regulatory compliance
  • Team members lacking experience or expertise
  • Short-term projects with clear instructions

Interactive Discussion (5 minutes)

• Engage in an open discussion with the participant, asking questions to gauge their understanding and opinions about autocratic leadership.
• Encourage the participant to share any personal experiences or observations related to this leadership style.

Case Study (2 minutes)

• Present a brief case study or scenario where autocratic leadership was used. Ask the participant to analyse the situation and discuss whether the use of this style was effective or not.

Workplace Equality Activity (4 minutes)

• Scenario Description: In a corporate office, a highly qualified job applicant with a disability is passed over for a job offer in favour of a candidate without a disability. The hiring manager is concerned about accommodating the applicant's needs.

Discussion Points:

• What are the equality and diversity concerns in this scenario?
• How might the applicant feel about the decision?
• What actions could the hiring manager take to address the situation and promote equality?

Reflection and Takeaways (1 minute)

• Ask the participant to reflect on what they've learned during the session.
• Encourage them to identify potential situations where autocratic leadership might be suitable and when it should be avoided.

Conclusion and Q&A (3 minutes)

• Summarise the key points discussed during the session.
• Invite the participant to ask any remaining questions or seek clarification on autocratic leadership.

Feedback and Evaluation (2 minutes)

• Collect feedback from the participants regarding the training session, including what they found most valuable and any areas they would like to explore further.

Closing Remarks (1 minute)

• Express appreciation for the participant's engagement and participation.
• Provide contact information for any follow-up questions or assistance.

Note: Depending on the participant's level of familiarity with leadership concepts, you may need to adjust the timing for each section and the depth of discussion accordingly.