SITUATION

This factor is about the context or situation where a leader’s actions must be interpreted. If you’ve ever told a good joke and it made everyone laugh in one situation—but had the joke fall flat in another—you can appreciate the power of the Situation factor.

Leaders know their audience, the pressures at play, the immediate needs of followers, the needs of customers, the competitive forces in the industry, etc. The quote “Timing is everything” speaks to the Situation factor. Leadership styles must fit the demands of the situation. Directive and controlling styles of leadership are perfect for times when the building really is on fire. But when creative thinking and innovative energies are needed in the Situation, a future-oriented visionary style of leadership is needed. The best leaders are highly attuned to the context, knowing that the “right” behavior depends on the Situation. They know when to pick their battles. They custom fit their communication to people, goals, and other situational factors.

Examples of Situation Factors

The skills and maturity of those you’re leading. The urgencies at play. Deadlines with a key customer. The “window” to release a new product into the marketplace before it’s too late. The audience listening to you as you articulate the  strategy (e.g., the Board of Directors versus front-line employees). The developmental needs of your direct reports.