According to leadership guidelines, which of the following should be avoided?

Denying formal authority should be avoided because effective leadership often relies on a clear understanding of roles and responsibilities within an organization. When a leader denies their formal authority, it can lead to confusion among team members regarding decision-making processes and the distribution of tasks. This can undermine the leader's ability to inspire confidence, promote accountability, and foster a productive working environment.

Formal authority is an important aspect of leadership as it provides clarity and structure; team members generally feel more secure and motivated when they understand the hierarchy and know who is accountable for decisions. In contrast, creating obligation, building expertise, and encouraging identification with the leader are strategies that can enhance a leader's effectiveness, foster collaboration, and build a cohesive team dynamic.