Treat your Employees DIFFERENTLY

Effectively engaging employees across various experience levels requires tailoring leadership approaches to meet individual needs. The Situational Leadership Model, developed by the Center for Leadership Studies, offers a comprehensive framework for adjusting leadership styles based on employee experience and skill development.

1. Directing Style

Adopt the Directing style when an employee is learning a new skill or task.  In order to support them most effectively, you will need to provide them with direct instruction, training, and step-by-step support.  Since the employee does not know what needs to be done, you will need to be telling them and showing them exactly what to do.

2. Coaching Style

Once the employee has learned the basics, you can step back and let them start practicing and experimenting.  You will still need to be present to answer their questions and provide direction as required - but the goal is to get them to start walking on their own.  Be encouraging and supportive when they make mistakes.

3. Supporting Style

After a while, the employee will know enough and be experienced enough to work reasonably independently. You will not be required to provide any direct instruction but you still need to be available to support them.  While the employee might know what to do, they may not have the confidence to handle every situation that comes their way. Check in with them regularly to answer any questions they might have and help them problem-solve more tricky situations.

4. Delegating Style

Once the employee has mastered the skill, you can adopt the Delegating style of leadership. You no longer need to check to see if they know what to do. You simply need to assign them tasks and have confidence they will be able to use the skill correctly. 

Importantly, these leadership styles exist on a continuum rather than as distinct categories, allowing you to adapt your approach dynamically based on employee needs and developmental stages. By understanding and applying the Situational Leadership Model, you can effectively engage your employees at all experience levels, fostering growth, and maximizing performance.

For more detailed information about the Situational Leadership model and to obtain formal training, check out The Centre for Leadership Studies.