The Situational Leadership Model
(Adapted from the model by Ken Blanchard and Paul Hersey in Management of Organizational Behavior, ’96)
The Situational Leadership Model suggests that there is no “one size fits all” approach
to leadership. Depending on the situation, varying levels of “leadership” and
“management” are necessary. However, leaders must first identify their most important
tasks or priorities. Second, leaders must consider the readiness level of their followers
by analyzing the group’s ability and willingness. Depending on the level of these
variables, leaders must apply the most appropriate leadership style to fit the given
situation. The four different types of situational leadership are:
Directing
Coaching
Supporting
Delegating
The Three Steps of the Situational Leadership Model
Step 1: Identify the Most Important Tasks or Priorities
Step 2: Diagnose the Readiness Level of the Followers
Step 3: Decide the Matching Leadership Style
