What Are The Advantages And Disadvantages Of Paternalistic Management?

There are several management styles exist within the working world. The management style your boss decides to adopt could not only affect the moral of the workers but the success of the business. The three main types of management can be categorized as:

• Paternalistic

• Autocratic

• Democratic

Paternalistic management involves managers making decisions that are in the best interests of their workers. Paternalistic derives from "Pater", meaning "father" in Latin. Paternalistic managers tend to be more sociable, friendly and outgoing, thus encouraging two-way communication and developing motivation. As a result, workers feel more valued and will find the boss more approachable. Managers will make the final decisions but the worker's views are still considered. The only significant disadvantage would be that decision making may be slower in a paternalistic environment.

Autocratic managers make all the decisions with no input from the workers. The good thing about this is that decision making is usually quick and it is effective when dealing with low-skilled workers. However, the workers will feel separate to managers and will end up feeling demotivated due to lack of two-way communication.

Lastly, a democratic managerial approach means the workers are allowed to make their own decisions and authority is delegated to workers. This is a very motivating managerial approach, although mistakes can be made if the workers are not skilled enough to carry out their decision. This approach can involve democratic discussion groups,. These can offer useful suggestions and ideas. However, managers must be willing to encourage the development of leadership skills in subordinates.

Conclusively, a sociable, friendly and outgoing boss is more likely to come under the paternalistic management definition. The manager may still possess an air of authority but will ultimately care about the needs and well being of his or her employees