I prefer it when the conductor follows me. It is more difficult to work with a conductor who does not listen - even if I understand that sometimes it makes sense when one person is ruling everything. But for bel canto, I have to have a conductor who listens and supports me.
I've always tried to coach people the way I would like to be coached; positively and encouragingly rather than with criticism and fear. . . I've tried to be as fair as possible.