AbstractResearch has shown that there are more than 30 differently named leadership styles, ranging from micro‐management to hands‐off, each with its own proponents. Six, however, stand out as most commonly found in business: authoritarian, democratic, transformational, laissez‐faire, servant, and situational. A review of the experiences of six leaders who embody these styles reveals that each mode of operating has its pros and cons; there is no single best approach. Being aware of one's leadership style and that of others makes it possible to leverage strengths and compensate for weaknesses and to properly match individuals to a particular role or task—for the good of the entire organization. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.