Lecture Notes: Hersey and Blanchard's Situational Leadership Model

Introduction

• Situational Leadership Model: Developed by Paul Hersey and Ken Blanchard.
• Purpose: Adapt leadership style based on the situation and the development level of followers.

Key Concepts

• Leadership Styles: Defined by two key behaviors:
  • Task behavior: The extent to which leaders define and structure roles.
  • Relationship behavior: The extent to which leaders engage in two-way communication.
• Development Levels of Followers: Involves the competence and commitment of the follower.

Leadership Styles

1. Telling (Directing)
   • High Task/Low Relationship
   • Leader defines roles and closely supervises tasks.
   • Suitable for followers with low maturity (D1).
2. Selling (Coaching)
   • High Task/High Relationship
   • Leader provides direction, seeks input, and encourages collaboration.
   • Suitable for followers with some competence but lack commitment (D2).
3. Participating (Supporting)
   • Low Task/High Relationship
   • Leader facilitates and supports subordinates’ efforts.
   • Suitable for followers with competence but lacking confidence (D3).
4. Delegating
   • Low Task/Low Relationship
   • Leader hands over responsibility.
   • Suitable for followers who are both competent and committed (D4).

Development Levels

• D1: Low competence, high commitment.
• D2: Some competence, low commitment.
• D3: High competence, variable commitment.
• D4: High competence, high commitment.

Application

• Assessment of Situation: Leaders must assess the situation and adapt their style to meet the needs of their followers.
• Influence of Maturity: The maturity or development level of the follower determines the appropriate leadership style.

Conclusion

• Situational Flexibility: Effective leadership depends on the leader's ability to adapt their style based on the situational variables.
• Continuous Assessment: Regular assessment of followers’ development levels is crucial.

By understanding and applying Hersey and Blanchard's Situational Leadership Model, leaders can effectively manage and support their teams according to the varying needs and development stages of their followers.