This paper examines Donald Trump's leadership style, identifying him as both an autocratic and charismatic leader. Drawing on management literature, the paper explores how Trump's detail-oriented, power-driven approach has contributed to the success of the Trump Organization, while also highlighting his charismatic ability to inspire loyalty and dedication. The paper then compares Trump's style to the author's own leadership approach, identifying shared strengths such as fostering interpersonal relationships and encouraging innovation, as well as areas where each leader could improve. The conclusion emphasizes that no single leadership style is universally effective and that the best leaders draw lessons from multiple approaches.
Over time, many different kinds of leaders have graced corporate America. From Mahatma Gandhi to Leona Helmsley to Martha Stewart, there seem to be as many different kinds of leaders as there are approaches to leadership. This paper concerns itself with the leadership style of Donald Trump. In doing so, it compares Trump's leadership style to the author's own in an attempt to identify traits Trump possesses that could be developed further, as well as strengths the author brings that Trump could benefit from.
In the words of DuBrin (2011, p. 364), "Donald Trump is a power-oriented business leader and celebrity with a brusque and autocratic leadership style." However, Trump also exhibits some characteristics of charismatic leadership. As Griffin (2011, p. 340) points out, Trump "is an excellent example of a charismatic leader." He could therefore be regarded as both an autocratic and a charismatic leader.
Individuals exhibiting an authoritarian leadership style prefer exercising significant control over decisions made at various levels. As an authoritarian leader, Trump regularly contributes to decisions touching on both the management and the day-to-day running of his businesses. As DuBrin (2011) observes, Trump is so detail-oriented that he has been known to involve himself in decisions as specific as selecting the type of marble used in hotel lobbies. In his popular television show The Apprentice, Trump does not shy away from demonstrating who is in control. He wields absolute power and, in doing so, often salvages potentially chaotic situations, successfully steering his teams toward greater success. For this reason, one could conclude that Trump's autocratic leadership style has contributed significantly to the success of the Trump Organization.
Donald Trump also exhibits characteristics of charismatic leadership. He is an individual who attracts immense admiration from scores of fans around the world. Over time, he has managed to present himself as a self-made billionaire who rose from financial ruin to relative success. For this reason, many people regard Donald Trump as a larger-than-life figure (Griffin, 2007). It is this larger-than-life appearance that enables him to inspire and motivate his employees and followers. In basic terms, a "charismatic leader must be able to energize others through a demonstration of personal excitement, personal confidence, and patterns of success" (Griffin, 2007, p. 340). As a compelling example of an American success story, Donald Trump's personality inspires dedication and loyalty from employees of the Trump Organization. Today, he is regarded as one of the most accomplished leaders in corporate America.
Like Trump, the author not only develops but also values strong interpersonal relationships between team members and the leader. In The Apprentice, Trump is often seen interacting with team members and immersing himself in various team activities. Although he never relinquishes executive control, he appears interested in creating an environment conducive to free and positive interpersonal relations. Similarly, the author develops opportunities for creative and innovative thinking and new methodologies at work. According to Kepcher (2004), one of the executive vice presidents of the Trump Organization was originally Trump's driver — an indication that Trump is consistently keen on developing talent and creating opportunities for creative thinking and new approaches at work.
To further enhance leadership capabilities, there are valuable lessons to be drawn from Trump's approach. To begin with, although the importance of delegating authority cannot be overstated, there is always a need to maintain a clear source of authority. This helps prevent arbitrary decision-making at various levels. Secondly, while team involvement is always critical, more can often be accomplished when the leader leads from the front and offers clear direction. Trump does not shy away from providing such direction to his teams.
"Authority and direction as key takeaways"
"Team autonomy and participative decision making"
It is important to note that each leadership style has its own strengths and weaknesses. For this reason, no single leadership style can by itself be regarded as universally effective. The most effective leader is therefore one who seeks to learn from the leadership styles of others and adapts accordingly.
You’re 77% through this paper. Sign up to read the remaining 2 sections.
Sign Up Now — Instant Access Already a member? Log inAlways verify citation format against your institution’s current style guide requirements.