What term refers to the way a leader exercises power and influences others?

The term that best describes the way a leader exercises power and influences others is "leadership style." This concept encompasses the distinctive behaviors, methods, and characteristics that a leader employs in guiding their team and making decisions. It reflects how leaders communicate, motivate, and engage with their followers, and ultimately shapes the dynamics of the group.

Different leadership styles can include authoritarian, democratic, transformational, and laissez-faire, among others. Each style carries unique implications for how authority is exercised and how influence is wielded. For instance, a transformational leadership style focuses on inspiring and empowering team members to achieve their potential, fostering an environment of collaboration and shared vision.

In contrast, other terms like "leadership strategy," "leadership model," and "leadership approach" may refer to broader frameworks or methods for achieving organizational goals or guiding principles, but they don’t specifically capture the nuances of how power is exercised in interpersonal dynamics. Therefore, identifying "leadership style" as the correct choice allows for a greater understanding of the interpersonal aspects of leadership and its impact on team performance and morale.