The Four Types of Situational Leadership (Hersey and Blanchard)
Situational Leadership is a model and process that helps leaders be purposeful and intentional in conversations with people. This creates a culture of clear expectations and objectives. Leaders learn how to give the right people the right amount of direction and support for each task.
Those four types of are:
1. Directing – this leadership approach is appropriate when people have just started their job. They may be unable to do the job or may be afraid to try. Directing requires the leader to define the roles and tasks clearly. Communication is mostly one-way.
2. Coaching – this leadership approach is appropriate when the team member is willing to do the job but doesn’t have the ability for the task. (I call this the Coach Approach Leadership). The positive side of the coach approach to leadership is that the team member has ownership of the issue/task and the learning is sustained. The negative is that the coach approach to leading takes time. Rather than giving directions, the leader uses questions and empowers the team member to make the decision.
3. Supporting – When the team member has the ability to do the job; however, is unwilling to attempt the task. The leader does not have to teach the skill, but must find the reason for the fear and convince them that they have the ability to complete the task.
4. Delegating – I once had a boss whose hiring theory was “hire well and turn them loose.” A leader can and should delegate so that team members are eager to do the job and are motivated to do it. The team member probably will not address the task like the leader, but the task will be completed in short time.
Want to know more about effective leadership? Do you know your leadership style? Are you aware of the type of leader with whom you work best? Contact me and let’s discuss how I can support you and your team is leadership excellence.
Will you join me on Thursday June 14 at 6 PM EST for FB live? I’ll do a deeper dive on Situational Leadership Styles.
