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Situational leadership

Situational Leadership, developed by Paul Hersey and Ken Blanchard, is a leadership theory that emphasizes the importance of adapting leadership styles to the specific needs and development levels of individuals or teams. According to this model, effective leadership depends on matching the appropriate leadership style to the readiness or maturity level of the followers. Hersey and Blanchard identified four main leadership styles in the Situational Leadership model:

Telling (S1 - Directing):

  • Characteristics: In the telling style, the leader provides clear instructions and closely supervises the work of the followers. This style is highly directive, with the leader making most decisions and providing specific guidance.
  • When to Use: Telling is most effective when followers have low competence and low commitment to a task or goal. In situations where followers lack the necessary skills or experience, they require clear and explicit direction.

Selling (S2 - Coaching):

  • Characteristics: In the selling style, the leader continues to provide direction and guidance but also seeks input from followers. There is more two-way communication, and the leader helps to build followers’ skills and commitment.
  • When to Use: Selling is appropriate when followers have low to moderate competence but still lack commitment. Leaders use coaching and persuasion to engage followers and build their confidence and skills.

Participating/Coaching (S3 - Supporting):

  • Characteristics: In the participating style, the leader reduces their level of control and decision-making, allowing followers to take more initiative. The leader provides support and encouragement while remaining available for guidance when needed.
  • When to Use: Participating works well when followers have moderate to high competence but may still have varying levels of commitment. Leaders empower and involve followers in decision-making and problem-solving to maintain motivation and engagement.

Delegating (S4 - Delegating):

  • Characteristics: In the delegating style, the leader provides minimal direction and control, allowing followers to take on full responsibility for their work. The leader trusts followers to make decisions and perform their tasks independently.
  • When to Use: Delegating is appropriate when followers have high competence and commitment. Leaders grant autonomy and let followers take charge of their work. The leader’s role is mainly to offer support and resources when necessary.
It’s important to note that the Situational Leadership model emphasizes flexibility in leadership style based on the specific needs of the situation and the readiness of the followers. Leaders should assess the maturity and competence of their team members in a given context and adapt their leadership style accordingly. Additionally, followers may move through different readiness levels for various tasks or projects, so effective leaders must be able to shift between these four styles as needed to maximize their team’s performance and development.

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