Business
Over the course of the last series of blogs and podcasts, I have been covering the differences between managers and leaders. Today I would like to combine the information that I have shared into a topic called situational leadership. As managers and leaders, we need to learn Effectively analyze and evaluate situations Adapt ourselves to the situation at handHave to take into account the level of skill and motivation that the employee has Once we have assessed and established what we have ahead of us we can then plan where we will require direction and where we will support This is why so much time was spent creating the differencesIt will allow us to operate and be flexible between the two spectrumsThis will be very essential when we lead based upon the situationThis is also why I have emphasized so many times that no one side is better than the otherThey will support each other and when we can effectively work between the two we can be very effectiveAn example would be An experienced worker with knowledge of the job but leadership micromanages and lowers motivation The inexperienced worker left with just minor directions to figure out the task and sink or swim. Again very demotivatingThis is an example of not assessing the situation and leading or managing in the wrong fashionEffective leadership requires variations of directing and collaborative stylesUsing a directive style we are setting goals Clarifying the employee’s role in the task ahead We will assist them and prepare many aspects in advance We will give them effective work priorities Establish guidelinesIn the end, we will evaluate the employee’s performance based on deadlines and the quality of work completedWe may go so far as to demonstrate what needs to be done and establish the way in will be completedThen following up with the team member to ensure that the work is completed Using a director style of leadership can be very effectiveIn situations where safety will dictate that things must be completed a certain wayI found it was very effective to be clear and concise about the tasks and how they should be done.When we use collaborative we are Asking the team what do they think How would they go about the task What do they need to complete the job on time and to qualityWhat are their ideas for completingThis is a style where We will provide information versus direction We would then provide encouragement for the work being completedWe will offer praise for jobs well done While still offering constructive feedback if the work is not up to standardGood leadership can determine when to use direction and collaborationI have realized that many of these factors I was using while others I need to work on I have room for improvement in many areas and this was a very fun experience in self-awareness Take the time to break down the style of leader you need to be Assess the situation and establish what I need to do then and only then actNow that we are aware of these behaviorsIt will be up to us to take what now know and move forward and use if effectivelyLearn to determine what skill set you must use in the situation Base it uBuzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched! Start for FREEDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.