Which leadership style is characterized by seeking input from employees before making important decisions, while keeping final authority?

• A. Delegative Style
• B. Facilitative Leadership Style
• C. Laissez-Faire Approach
• D. Consultative Leadership Style

Answer: (D)

This item tests how a leader balances gathering input with retaining control over decisions. Consultative leadership involves inviting input from employees before making important decisions, while the final decision still rests with the leader. This combination—seeking team perspectives but keeping final authority—is the defining feature here.

Delegative leadership hands decision-making to others, so the final authority isn’t kept by the leader. A laissez-faire approach is more hands-off and involves minimal direction from the leader. Facilitative leadership focuses on guiding discussion and helping the group reach a conclusion, which can shift how final decisions are made, but the specific pattern described—input with the leader retaining final say—best fits consultative leadership.