Situational Leadership Theory
- Theory / Concept Name
- Situational Leadership Theory
- Description
Paul Hersey and Kenneth Blanchard proposed that effective leaders adapt their style to the development level (maturity) of the follower for each specific task.
Follower Development Levels
- D1 (Enthusiastic Beginner): Low competence, high commitment.
- D2 (Disillusioned Learner): Low to some competence, low commitment.
- D3 (Capable but Cautious): Moderate to high competence, variable commitment.
- D4 (Self-Reliant Achiever): High competence, high commitment.
Four Leadership Styles
- S1 — Directing (Telling): High task, low relationship. Best for D1.
- S2 — Coaching (Selling): High task, high relationship. Best for D2.
- S3 — Supporting (Participating): Low task, high relationship. Best for D3.
- S4 — Delegating: Low task, low relationship. Best for D4.
Key Point
No single style is best — the leader must match their style to the readiness or development level of the follower for that specific task.
- Theorist / Pioneer
- Hersey & Blanchard
- Year
- 1969
- Category
- Leadership