50 Shades of Situational Leadership® – It’s Guidance and It’s Explanation
In the practice of Situational Leadership®, giving direction isn’t enough. What makes leadership truly effective is combining guidance with clear explanation.
A directive without context can feel like control. But when people understand the why behind the what, they’re far more likely to engage, commit, and grow.
🧭 Guidance sets the direction
In Situational Leadership®, guidance is about helping others see where they’re going. It means outlining expectations, defining responsibilities, and pointing the way—especially when someone is just starting out or facing unfamiliar terrain.
- Showing the way forward, not just pointing to the finish line
- Clarifying expectations so others know what success looks like
- Adjusting your approach based on the follower’s development level
Situational leaders guide differently based on who they’re leading. They might be hands-on and instructional with someone new—or step back and coach when someone’s ready to take the lead.
Guidance isn’t micromanagement. It’s support tailored to what’s needed now.
💬 Leadership Is Also Explanation
Telling people what to do is one thing. Explaining the why behind it? That’s where real alignment happens.
- It builds understanding and trust
- It encourages critical thinking, not blind obedience
- It ensures buy-in, not just compliance
In Situational Leadership®, explanation closes the gap between intention and action. It shows respect and invites ownership.
People are more committed when they understand the reason behind the request.
Situational Leadership® works because it balances direction with communication.
Guidance gives people the path.
Explanation gives them the reason to walk it.
And that combination?
It turns compliance into commitment—and movement into momentum.
