Leadership Continuum

Theory / Concept Name

Description

Robert Tannenbaum and Warren Schmidt described leadership style as a continuum ranging from fully boss-centred (autocratic) to fully subordinate-centred (democratic).

Seven Points on the Continuum

Manager makes decision and announces it.
Manager sells the decision.
Manager presents ideas and invites questions.
Manager presents a tentative decision subject to change.
Manager presents the problem, gets suggestions, then decides.
Manager defines the limits and asks the group to decide.
Manager permits subordinates to function within limits defined by the superior.

Factors Determining Style

Forces in the manager (values, confidence in subordinates).
Forces in the subordinates (readiness, need for independence).
Forces in the situation (time pressure, organisational culture, task complexity).

Significance

This model moved management thinking away from a 'one best style' toward situational appropriateness.

Theorist / Pioneer

Tannenbaum & Schmidt

Year

1958

Category

Leadership