suggests leaders should adapt their style based on followers' readiness and the task at hand. It emphasizes , recognizing that no single leadership approach works in all situations.
This theory fits into the broader study of leadership by highlighting the importance of context. It provides a framework for leaders to assess situations and choose the most effective style, from to .
Situational Leadership Theory
Core Principles
Situational leadership theory
No single "best" style of leadership exists
Effective leadership adapts style to the individual or group being led or influenced based on the task
Amount of direction () and socio-emotional support () a leader provides depends on
The situation
The "level of maturity" of the followers
Model for developing people from low readiness to high readiness
End goal is followers are confident and motivated for tasks
Leadership is specific to the situation in which it is being exercised
Leaders must flexibly move between different leadership styles as conditions change
Follower Readiness
Follower readiness defined as the ability and willingness of a person to take responsibility for directing their own behavior for a specific task
Four levels of follower readiness
: Unable and unwilling
: Unable but willing
: Able but unwilling
: Able and willing
Leaders must accurately diagnose follower readiness level
Adapt leadership style accordingly for the given situation or task
As follower readiness changes, leaders must adapt their style
Leadership Styles in Situational Leadership
Top images from around the web for Leadership Styles in Situational Leadership
Situational Theories of Leadership | Principles of Management View original