Situational Influences on Leadership

Situations influence leadership traits and styles.

Leadership philosophies and personality types determine a leader's perspective. A wide variety of leadership styles focus on the relationship between the leader and the follower. Situational leadership, however, looks at the situation, influences and circumstances surrounding the events.

History

During the late 1960s and early 1970s, theories on situational leadership abounded. However, these did not offer a complete explanation of leadership. Although situational leadership is still used, it is often in combination with other theories, according to ChangingMinds.org.

Theories/Speculation

Several experts have developed differing theories of situational leadership. The Hersey-Blanchard theory recommends that the successful leader adjusts his leadership style to the level of the people he leads, according to MindTools.com. Vroom and Yelton consider the importance of the decision and how followers will cooperate with the decision. The Path-Goal theory describes how leaders motivate their followers toward goals. This is accomplished through clarification, assistance and rewards for achievement.

Criticisms

Although research has confirmed some of the tenets of situational leadership, criticisms have arisen as well. The theory and methods behind the Hersey-Blanchard theory have come under scrutiny. Both the Vroom and Yelton model and the Path-Goal theories have been seen as too complex. In addition, the Path-Goal theory does not consider the relationship between the variables involved, says ChangingMinds.org.

References

• Encyclopedia of Business: Leadership
• Mind Tools: The Hersey-Blanchard Situational Leadership® Theory
• Changing Minds: Vroom and Yetton's Normative Model
• Changing Minds: Path-Goal Theory of Leadership