Mastering Situational Leadership: Lessons from Hersey & Blanchard

What Is Situational Leadership?

If you’ve ever managed a team, you know that a “one-size-fits-all” approach rarely works. That’s exactly what Paul Hersey and Ken Blanchard discovered—and why they created the Situational Leadership Model. Their big idea? The best leaders flex their style to fit the needs, skills, and confidence of their people.

The Four Styles—Finding Your Leadership Sweet Spot

Hersey & Blanchard outlined four leadership styles, each a tool in your leadership toolkit:

• Directing: When your team needs step-by-step guidance (think: new hires or big changes)

• Coaching: When encouragement and direction help people move forward

• Supporting: When your team’s capable, but needs confidence and collaboration

• Delegating: When your people are crushing it solo—so you step back and let them own it

The magic? Matching your style to the moment. Experienced leaders know they have to shift gears based on the person and the task.

Why Does This Matter for Today’s Leaders?

At Agile Leadership Learning, we believe real leadership is about empowering growth. Situational Leadership gives you a repeatable, practical method to do just that—helping others rise by meeting them where they are.

• New team? Start with structure and clarity.

• Developing talent? Coach and encourage.

• Strong performers? Support and, when ready, let them soar.

Trust me: you’ll see engagement, confidence, and results skyrocket.

Want the Full Picture?

Check out my quick video where I break this down with real-world examples: Watch on Instagram

Ready to Lead with Purpose?

If you’re looking to boost your impact, keep evolving your style. Need tailored strategies? Let’s connect—you and your team’s next level is waiting.