Situational leadership is a leadership style in which a leader adapts their style of leading to suit the current work environment and/or needs. The Situational Leadership Model, created by Dr. Paul Hersey and Dr. Ken Blanchard, is a flexible framework that enables leaders to tailor their approach to the needs of their team or individual members. The model provides a repeatable process for matching leadership behaviors to the performance needs of those being influenced.

The fundamental principle of the Situational Leadership Model is that there is no single "best" style of leadership. Effective leadership is task-relevant, and the most successful leaders are those who adapt their leadership style to the Performance Readiness level (ability and willingness) of the individual or group they are attempting to lead or influence.

The Situational Leadership Model consists of four common leadership styles:

• Directing: This style is most appropriate when the followers are new to the task, lack the necessary skills, and are unwilling to take responsibility. The leader provides specific instructions and closely supervises the followers.

• Coaching: This style is most appropriate when the followers are new to the task but are willing to take responsibility. The leader provides guidance and support, but the followers are still responsible for the task.

• Supporting: This style is most appropriate when the followers have some experience with the task but lack confidence. The leader provides praise and recognition, and the followers are responsible for the task.

• Delegating: This style is most appropriate when the followers are experienced and confident. The leader provides minimal direction and supervision, and the followers are responsible for the task.

Situational leadership is effective because it allows leaders to adapt their leadership style to each unique situation or task to meet the needs of the team or team members.