In leadership, one size does not fit all. The best leaders understand that different people and different situations require different approaches. Whether you’re working with emerging leaders just starting their journey or high performers who have mastered their craft, tailoring your leadership style can be the difference between motivating growth and unintentionally holding someone back.
This concept is beautifully captured in the Situational Leadership model, originally developed by Ken Blanchard and Paul Hersey. It’s a timeless framework that continues to guide leaders across industries, emphasizing that effective leadership isn’t about a single style but about adapting to the needs of your people.
Leading Emerging Leaders: The Enthusiastic Beginners
When someone is new to a role or task, they often bring energy, optimism, and enthusiasm. They’re eager to take on challenges and say, “I’ll do it!” without hesitation.
But here’s the challenge: while their energy is high, their experience is limited.
For leaders, this means leaning into a more directive style, providing clear instructions, guidance, and structure. The goal isn’t to micromanage but to help emerging leaders build the skills and confidence they need to succeed.
Key strategies for leading emerging leaders:
- Provide step-by-step direction.
- Encourage their enthusiasm while setting realistic expectations.
- Celebrate early wins to fuel momentum.
Leading High Performers: The Experienced Experts
On the other side of the spectrum are high performers, those with years of experience and proven track records. These individuals thrive on autonomy and creativity.
The biggest mistake leaders make here is being too directive. Over-managing high performers can drain their energy, dampen their motivation, and even push them away.
Instead, leaders should shift toward coaching, supporting, and applauding:
- Ask for their input rather than giving step-by-step instructions.
- Remove obstacles that get in their way.
- Recognize and celebrate their achievements.
For high performers, effective leadership often means getting out of the way so they can do what they do best.
The Continuum of Leadership Styles
The Situational Leadership model highlights a continuum of leadership approaches that include:
- Directive leadership – ideal for beginners.
- Coaching and collaborative problem-solving – for growing leaders.
- Supportive, empowering leadership – for experts and high performers.
The key is knowing when to shift along that continuum. Using the wrong style at the wrong time can create frustration for both you and your team. The right style, however, builds trust, strengthens performance, and creates a culture where people thrive.
Final Thoughts: The Right Leadership at the Right Time
Leadership isn’t about sticking to a script; it’s about reading the situation, understanding the individual, and adjusting your approach. Emerging leaders need guidance and encouragement, while high performers need trust and autonomy.
When leaders embrace flexibility and tailor their style to the people they lead, they unlock not just better performance, but stronger relationships, higher motivation, and lasting growth.