Texas Real Estate Brokerage Sales Apprentice Education (SAE) Practice Exam

Which of the following describes an autocratic management style?

1. Very relaxed and open to discussion

2. Similar to dictatorial but less authoritative

3. Empowers team members

4. Ensures team conflict is minimized

The correct answer is: Similar to dictatorial but less authoritative

An autocratic management style is characterized by a high degree of control exercised by the leader, where decision-making authority is centralized. This approach involves the leader making decisions unilaterally and expecting team members to comply without input or feedback. While it can be likened to a dictatorial style, it may exhibit some level of flexibility in terms of communication and direction, yet it fundamentally retains the authoritative aspect where the leader maintains a significant amount of power over the team. In contrast, the other choices highlight characteristics that are not typical of an autocratic management style. A relaxed and open approach to discussion suggests a participative or democratic style, where team members are encouraged to contribute ideas. Empowering team members is indicative of a transformational or servant leadership style that focuses on motivation and personal development. Minimizing team conflict generally aligns with collaborative management, where the leader seeks to create a harmonious team environment through cooperation and open dialogue. Therefore, the choice that best encapsulates the essence of an autocratic management style is the description that relates it to being similar to dictatorial, albeit potentially less rigid in certain contexts.