Adaptive Leadership
Leading Like Jesus with Situational Awareness
In today’s fast-paced business climate, leaders face a diverse range of challenges that demand more than just a fixed leadership style. Great leaders recognize that what works for one team member may not work for another. This is where Situational Leadership becomes a powerful and strategic tool.
What Is Situational Leadership?
Situational Leadership is a dynamic framework that equips leaders to adapt their behavior based on the development level of the individual they're leading. Originally developed by Paul Hersey and Ken Blanchard, this model emphasizes the importance of flexibility. Leaders adjust their style depending on the employee's competence (skills and knowledge) and commitment (motivation and confidence) regarding a specific task.
Jesus modeled this approach in His ministry. He rebuked the proud, encouraged the discouraged, and patiently guided the doubtful. He met people where they were—not with a one-size-fits-all response, but with a discerning, individualized touch.
Why Adaptability Matters in Leadership
According to research by The Center for Leadership Studies, nearly 50% of the time leaders are applying the wrong leadership style to the situation (source). This mismatch can lead to confusion, low morale, and stunted growth. The alternative? Adaptive leadership that aligns with both business goals and personal development.
The Four Styles of Situational Leadership
Situational Leadership includes four distinct styles:
- Directing (high direction, low support): For team members who are new to a task but motivated. Leaders provide clear instructions and close supervision.
- Coaching (high direction, high support): For those with some competence but lacking confidence. Leaders continue to direct but also provide encouragement and dialogue.
- Supporting (low direction, high support): Best for individuals with competence but variable commitment. Leaders step back from directing and focus on listening and collaboration.
- Delegating (low direction, low support): Appropriate for highly capable and motivated team members. Leaders provide autonomy and trust them to perform independently.
These styles are not about labeling people but about recognizing their growth stage and responding accordingly.
A Biblical Approach to Leadership
Scripture encourages us to serve others with wisdom and intentionality. The Apostle Paul reminds us, "To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people" (1 Corinthians 9:22). This level of discernment is foundational to faith-driven leadership.
Situational Leadership in the Real World
Imagine launching a new initiative with team members at varying experience levels. One employee is eager but green. Another is seasoned but hesitant. A third is ready to lead. Applying the same leadership style across the board would be inefficient. By tailoring your approach to each individual's readiness, you increase buy-in, improve execution, and develop leaders in the process.
Adaptive leadership also curbs tendencies like micromanagement or premature delegation. Leaders who assess readiness accurately can shift their posture as needed, avoiding both under-supporting and over-controlling their teams.
Growth Starts with You
Situational Leadership isn’t just about others—it starts with the leader’s self-awareness. Are you aware of your default style? Do you know when to shift gears? Growth in this area requires intentional reflection, feedback, and practice.
Resources like The Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay Stanier or Leadership and the One Minute Manager by Ken Blanchard offer actionable tools to develop adaptive leadership skills.
Join the Movement
At C12 Mid-Atlantic, we believe business leaders are called to something higher. Our peer advisory groups help you grow in wisdom, lead with integrity, and operate your business as a platform for eternal impact. Through Christ-centered counsel and strategic content, you gain the tools and perspective needed to lead like Jesus—with purpose, adaptability, and excellence.
Ready to transform the way you lead? Discover C12 Mid-Atlantic and take the next step in your leadership journey.
Citations & Resources
- Hersey, Paul & Blanchard, Ken –
Situational Leadership Model
The Center for Leadership Studies: What is the Situational Leadership Model? - Blanchard, Ken –
A Situational Approach to Effective Leadership
Blanchard Blog, 2019 - Bible – New International Version
1 Corinthians 9:22 - Stanier, Michael Bungay –
The Coaching Habit: Say Less, Ask More & Change the Way You Lead Forever
Amazon Link - Blanchard, Ken et al. –
Leadership and the One Minute Manager
Amazon Link - Ghazzawi, Khalil et al. –
Situational Leadership and Its Effectiveness in Rising Employee Productivity
Human Resource Management Research, 2017 - Kidston, Paul –
Understanding the Four Types of Situational Leadership Styles
LinkedIn, 2024 - Blanchard Training & Development –
SLII: A Situational Approach to Managing People
SLII Overview
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