Free rein Leadership or Laissez-Faire Leadership

The leadership style under which a leader gives complete freedom to the subordinates is known as Free rein or Laissez-Faire.

For example, Sitaraman gives the responsibility of setting goals and devising plans to the subordinates, then here Sitaraman is practising free rein leadership. 

• The leader depends on the group for setting goals and devising plans to achieve such goals. 
• It can be said that this style is more of a non-leadership style than a leadership style, as the leader acts as an umpire and delegates the entire authority of decision-making to subordinates.
• Group members work as per their choice and competence. The leader acts as a contact man with the outsiders and collects information and resources required by the group to achieve the goals.
• This style is also known as “laissez-faire”, which means no interference from others. “Laissez-faire” is a french phrase, which means “let them do”.
   

The process of influencing the behaviour of people towards the achievement of organisational goals is known as Leadership. It indicates the ability of an individual to maintain good interpersonal relations with followers and motivate them to contribute to achieving organisational objectives. An individual who has the attributes of leadership is known as a leader.

The behaviour pattern which is reflected by a leader in his role is known as the Leadership style. It is the result of the philosophy, personality, experience, and value system of a leader. The type of followers and the atmosphere prevailing in the organisation also affect leadership styles.