As team maturity increases, leaders should shift from being more _____ to being more _____.

As team maturity increases, it is essential for leaders to foster an environment that encourages autonomy and empowerment among team members. Leaders initially may need to adopt a more directive style to guide teams through the stages of development, especially when members are less experienced or unsure of their roles. This direct approach helps establish a foundation, providing clear direction and support as the team learns and grows.

However, as the team's maturity develops, members typically gain more skills, confidence, and knowledge. At this stage, effective leadership involves a shift towards an empowering style, where leaders encourage team members to take initiative, make decisions, and contribute ideas. This empowerment promotes higher engagement and ownership among team members, allowing them to excel and innovate further.

Thus, the transition from being more directive to more empowering aligns with the natural evolution of team dynamics, where increased maturity and capability of team members warrant a leadership style that fosters collaboration, creativity, and problem-solving.