Mode Three: Adaptive/Collaborative Leadership

Abstract

Mode three leaders are discernible by their concern with collaboration as opposed to the cooperative focus of mode two. The differences are that while mode two leaders focus on reducing conflict primarily by placing an emphasis on individuals burying their differences, mode three leaders recognize the differences between people and realize that conflict is an inherent and important part of life. The outcome of this is that mode three leaders spend considerable time dealing with and exploring conflict to enable individuals to work through the conflict and gain an understanding of themselves, how others see and react to them and further learn to appreciate the value of others through that conflict. Mode three is where diversity starts to become understood as a real strength and is accepted as part and parcel of work life. In short, these leaders are more able to adapt to local conditions and respond positively to change and conflict, moving into a new place rather than reacting by merely trying to control things.

I have always thought that the best way to find out what is right and what is not right, what should be done and what should not be done, is not to give a sermon, but to talk and discuss, and out of discussion sometimes a little bit of truth comes out

Jawaharlal Nehru, Indian statesman (1889–1964)