Hersey & Blanchard’s

Situational Theory
 Premise
 Primary focus is on the belief that there is not one “best”
style, but a good choice given a situation.

 “Successful leaders are those who can adapt their behavior

to meet the demands of their own unique situation.”

 Situational Leadership theory is based on the amount of:

a. direction (task)
b. support (relationship)
c. maturity level of group and individuals
 Three Main Components
Situational Leadership theory is based on the
amount of:
1. direction (task)
2. support (relationship)
3. maturity level of group and individuals
 Types of Behaviors
Task Behavior
The extent to which a leader engages in one way
communication by explaining what each follower is
to do as well as when, where, and how tasks are to
be accomplished

Relationship Behavior
The extent to which a leader engages in two way
communication by providing support, active
listening, and facilitative behaviors
 Status of Followers
Maturity/Readiness Level (of followers) =

a. capacity to set high but attainable goals

b. willingness and ability to take responsibility

c. education and/or experience

 Leader’s Process
 Leaders must FIRST assess maturity/readiness of
group and then determine how much task and
relationship behavior to use.

 Maturity/readiness of group should be considered

only in relation to a specific situation to be
performed
 Ken Blanchard

www.KenBlanchard.com
 Paul Hersey

www.Situational.com