Situational leadership and how to practice it

What is situational leadership?

Situational leadership is a dynamic approach to leadership. In this model, the leader adapts their style to fit the level of the team members. These leaders understand that there’s no one-size-fits-all method to leadership and that they need to adjust their approach based on both their team’s needs and the task at hand. 

For dev teams, situational leadership is particularly valuable. These teams are often faced with constantly changing technologies and project scopes. Such a situation necessitates a leader who can effortlessly shift from giving direct instructions to offering support. The adaptability of such effective leaders boosts a team’s efficiency and morale, and it also offers autonomy to team members, allowing their skills and confidence to grow.

Key characteristics of situational leadership

The key characteristics of situational leadership are as follows:

• Flexibility and adaptability

• Supportive behavior

• Assessment of team members’ skill levels

Flexibility and adaptability

Situational leadership recognizes that there’s no single leadership style that works for every situation or every team member. For instance, a project in its initial stages might require a more hands-on, directive approach, while a team of experienced professionals might benefit more from a hands-off style, where the leader plays more of a supportive role. Effective leaders are flexible, tailoring their approach according to the specific circumstances and needs of their team. This guarantees that leadership is always relevant, effective, and responsive to the team’s evolving dynamics and the changing nature of projects.

Supportive behavior

Situational leadership stresses supportive behavior. The focus of this approach rests on building relationships, encouraging open communication, and fostering a supportive environment. In scenarios where team members are skilled but potentially lack the confidence or motivation to push beyond their limits, situational leadership offers a gateway for leaders to accommodate the needs of their team members. The art of situational leadership lies in determining the right balance between supportive and directive.

Assessment of team members’ skill levels

A critical aspect of situational leadership is gauging the skill level of team members. Every member of the team has a different level of competence in their area of expertise, and that is what determines their commitment to a specific task. Effective leaders can effectively assess both how well team members understand their roles and responsibilities and how committed the team members are to achieving their goals, enabling managers to apply the most effective leadership style in order to enhance both individual and team performance.

Situational leadership in practice

The situational leadership model offers a dynamic framework with distinct leadership styles that effective leaders can adopt to meet the unique needs and situations of their teams. The four leadership styles are as follows:

1. Directing

2. Coaching

3. Supporting

4. Delegating

Directing 

This leadership style is a combination of high-directive and low-supportive behavior. Leaders offer clear instructions and directives for their team members to follow. The aim is to make sure tasks are understood and followed precisely. This is most effective for team members who require close supervision and clear guidance. In this mode, the leader takes a directive approach, making decisions and providing specific instructions.

Coaching

Leaders who promote two-way communication as a way to offer guidance and support to build the skills and confidence of their team members utilize this high-directive and high-supportive coaching style. This style is most suitable for teams that are motivated and committed but don’t yet possess the necessary skills to perform a task. Hence, emphasis is placed on the skill development of team members so that they’re involved in achieving project goals in an efficient manner.

Supporting

This style is characterized by a more supportive approach, where leaders encourage team input and collaboration. By valuing the expertise and contributions of team members, leaders can boost their confidence and commitment. The supporting leadership style is most effective when team members possess the necessary skills but lack confidence and intrinsic motivation.

Delegating

In this leadership style, the leader trusts the team to make decisions and take action. After setting clear goals and expectations, team members are encouraged to adopt whatever method they mind most suitable for achieving the project goals. This style allows team members to use their skills effectively and take ownership of their work, leading to better team efficiency and productivity and also supporting the professional development of the team members.

Final word

Situational leaders are better able to effectively respond to the diverse needs of their team members and the varying circumstances they encounter in the workplace. Rather than sticking to a conventional method, situational leaders skillfully navigate their organizations by flexibly applying their leadership skills.