What characterizes top-down leadership?

Top-down leadership is characterized by a hierarchical structure where authority and decision-making flow from the top levels of an organization down to the lower levels. In this model, leaders or administrators set goals, make decisions, and establish policies without requiring input or consensus from those lower in the hierarchy. This approach emphasizes clear lines of authority and accountability, where directives come from senior management or leaders, and it is expected that these decisions are implemented by subordinate staff.

In contrast, community-based decision-making, collaborative planning, and shared governance involve engaging various stakeholders and promoting input and participation from different levels of the organization or community. These approaches value discourse and consensus, focusing on inclusivity and collective responsibility, which are not key elements in a strictly top-down leadership model.