SOMETIMES A LEADER must step in, take charge and call the shots. This directive style of management is vital when a crisis looms or the team shows signs of letting things drift. However, it is not always appropriate. If a strategic planning session has been called, it is more important to listen, stimulate discussion and ideas and give the participants a chance to shine. Directing people to be creative does not work.

To adopt the correct approach, a leader should remember three things when chairing a meeting – people are more committed to ideas and plans they help create; groups can make better decisions than individuals; and people willingly accept responsibility for decisions they have made. Meetings will have a positive atmosphere and enthusiastic attendance if they are guided by these principles. They will also be more likely to achieve results.