Paul Hersey and Kenneth Blanchard developed Situational Leadership in the late 1960s.
It emphasizes that effective leadership is not a one-size-fits-all approach but requires adapting one’s leadership style to the situation’s specific needs and the individuals being led.
This guide will introduce you to the critical concepts of Situational Leadership and provide practical tips for applying it in your leadership role.
1. Understanding Situational Leadership:
Situational Leadership is based on the idea that people’s competency and commitment levels vary depending on the task or goal they are working on.
The model identifies four leadership styles:
- Directing (Telling): In this style, the leader provides specific instructions and closely supervises the team members. This style is suitable for individuals who are inexperienced or lack confidence in performing a task.
- Coaching (Selling): The leader provides guidance and support and encourages two-way communication to help team members develop their skills. This style is effective when individuals are motivated but still need direction.
- Supporting (Participating): The leader becomes more of a facilitator, allowing team members to take on more responsibility while providing support and resources as needed. This style suits individuals who have gained some competence and confidence.
- Delegating: The leader empowers team members to make decisions and take ownership of their work. This style is suitable for highly competent and committed individuals.
2. Identifying the Right Leadership Style:
The key to effective Situational Leadership is identifying the readiness level of your team members for a particular task or goal. Readiness is determined by considering two primary factors:
- Competence: How skilled and experienced is the individual in performing the task? Have they received the necessary training and guidance?
- Commitment: How motivated and confident is the individual in completing the task? Are they enthusiastic about the work or lacking in interest?
3. Applying Situational Leadership:
Once you’ve assessed the readiness level of your team members, you can adapt your leadership style accordingly:
- Directing (Low Readiness): When an individual is low in competence and commitment, use a directing style. Clearly explain what needs to be done, provide step-by-step instructions, and closely monitor their progress.
- Coaching (Moderate Readiness): If someone shows moderate competence but low commitment, use a coaching style. Provide guidance, encourage questions and suggestions, and build their confidence through positive feedback.
- Supporting (Moderate to High Readiness): Adopt a supportive style for individuals with moderate to high competence but variable commitment levels. Offer assistance as needed and involve them in decision-making to increase engagement.
- Delegating (High Readiness): When someone demonstrates high competence and commitment, delegate tasks and empower them to make decisions. Provide support when requested, but allow them to own their work.
4. The Flexibility of Situational Leadership:
Remember that Situational Leadership is not fixed; it’s a dynamic approach.
As your team members’ readiness levels change, be prepared to adapt your leadership style accordingly. Regularly assess their progress and offer the appropriate level of support and direction.
5. Effective Communication:
Effective communication is essential for Situational Leadership. Listen actively to your team members, be open to their feedback, and be clear and specific in your instructions.
Provide constructive feedback to help them improve their skills and maintain a positive and supportive environment.
6. Empowering Growth:
Ultimately, Situational Leadership aims to develop your team members’ competencies and commitment over time.
By tailoring your leadership style to their needs, you create an environment that fosters personal and professional growth.
7. Recognizing Individual Differences:
Each team member is unique, so avoiding applying a one-size-fits-all approach is crucial. Get to know your team members individually, understand their strengths and weaknesses, and adjust your leadership style accordingly.
8. Patience and Persistence:
Situational Leadership may require patience and persistence as you navigate different situations and team dynamics. Be prepared to invest time and effort into understanding and effectively supporting your team members.
9. Seek Feedback:
Continuous improvement is vital for any leader. Seek feedback from your team members about your leadership style. Ask them how you can better support them and what areas you can improve.
10. Evolving as a Leader:
As you gain experience with Situational Leadership, you will become more adept at recognizing your team members’ varying needs.
Continuously educate yourself on leadership techniques and refine your approach as circumstances change.
Remember, Situational Leadership is a flexible and adaptive style that prioritizes the needs of team members.
By tailoring your approach to each individual’s readiness level, you can inspire higher performance, boost morale, and cultivate a productive and engaged team.
With 30+ years of experience, Catherine Fitzgerald, B.A., M.A., PGDip, founded Oak Innovation in 1995. Catherine received her Bachelor’s degree and Master’s from University College Cork. She holds qualifications in Professional Development And Training from University College Galway. She is completing a second Master’s from University College Cork. Since 1995, clients include Apple, Time Warner, and Harvard University.
