SITUATIONAL LEADERSHIP

Throughout the years, there have been many leadership style theories identified. Basically, the autocratic leadership style has gone out of fashion in recent years, though certain situations, such as emergencies, still call for its use. 


One popular theory is called "situational leadership." No one style of leadership is appropriate for every occasion or situation. The most effective style to use depends upon the situation and whether the group members are willing and able to take on the responsibility. To be effective as a leader, it's important to know your group in terms of knowledge, ability, desire and willingness, and be ready to adapt your style to suit the occasion. 


The telling leader - This leader "tells" the members what to do and doesn't worry too much about the feelings or relationships within the group. This is appropriate where members are new, inexperienced, lacking in confidence or need a lot of help and direction in order to get the job done. The leader should give clear directions and provide follow-up and feedback. 


The selling leader - This leader often needs to "sell" or persuade the group to "buy into" a job. The group is a little more responsible or experienced, but direction and guidance by the leader is still needed at this level. The leader should explain the decisions and give a lot of opportunity for clarification. 


The participating leader - The leader and the group members participate in making the decisions and carrying them out together. The group has the ability to do the job, but might lack the confidence to carry it out on their own. The leader puts more emphasis on the group relationship than on the task to be done. They encourage and compliment the members. 


The delegating leader - The leader trusts the group to decide and carry out the responsibility on it's own. The members have the desire and are experienced and capable of doing the job. The members are responsible for directing their own affairs. 


Source: Thomas Gordon, Effective Leadership

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