How can a cookie cutter leadership style meet the demands of an increasingly diverse society? Strategic Situational leadership offers a more flexible solution to you as an athletic administrator.

Sociology textbooks can explain how various researchers have contributed in this area, but the concept is a relatively simple. Instead of sticking with what you know, you adapt your leadership style to different circumstances. Be a simple leader in a complex world!

Maybe your department is dealing with a difficult situation, or maybe you just want to learn how to become more influential and effective as an athletic leader. Here are some tips to grow as a leader using strategic situational leadership strategies.

Situational Leadership – Assessing the Situation

There are many factors to take into account when you’re working with a group. That includes the nature of your team and what you’re trying to accomplish.

Keep these tips in mind:

1. Evaluate engagement. Willingness and enthusiasm are two key qualities to look for. Some obvious signs of  engagement include exceeding expectations and spending time on professional development activities.
2. Measure ability. Of course, willingness only goes so far. Your team must also be able to do the required tasks. You may want to check for understanding, conduct one on one sessions and engage your team in self-assessment exercises.
3. Explore personalities. Understanding personalities matters too. Talking about values and personalities can help you to figure out how to motivate your team and handle conflicts. Consider conducting a personality profile activity during professional development.
4. Clarify expectations. As a leader it is imperative to clarify expectations and work at developing group and individual goals. Put your core values and objectives down in writing.
5. Define tasks. Consider the nature of your work. Is it mostly simple and routine or does it involve more complex reasoning and variety?
6. Meet deadlines. Keep your timeline in mind. Will you need to make decisions on your own quickly or is there more room for discussion and consultation? Seek out experts and use data to drive your decisions.

Situational Leadership – Understanding Your Options

Unless you wear the same clothes everyday, you’re going to need more than one kind of outfit in your closet. In the same way, expanding your leadership skills will prepare you for a range of opportunities that you’re likely to come across in today’s leadership landscape.

Depending on the situation, various strategies may be effective, such as:

1. Provide direction. Sometimes leadership boils down to giving instructions. That may be the case if your team is limited in terms of willingness or ability.
2. Offer coaching. At the same time, you may be able to offer more support and less direction as your team acquires greater experience and forms stronger relationships. Create a culture of constructive feedback, high standards, and ongoing professional development.
3. Delegate responsibility. Identify which tasks you need to do yourself and which you can hand over to someone else. This may include recurring activities or those that give your team a chance to upgrade their skills.
4. Earn trust. Even if your role carries a high level of authority, it’s beneficial to build trust. A team is more likely to succeed if they feel secure and respected. Strive to be consistent and objective. Communicate openly and take responsibility for your decisions. Leadership means having to say you are sorry!
5. Set an example. What does your behavior say about your character and abilities? Your team will notice what you do as well as what you say. Honor your commitments and work on your listening skills.
6. Build personal relationships. Meaningful connections and shared goals turn a group of individuals into a team. As a leader, it’s important to establish rapport and show appreciation. Stay positive and approachable.
7. Identify talent. Who are the shining stars on your team? Create future leaders by spotting talent and nurturing it. Pay attention to potential along with current performance, so you’ll be prepared for emerging needs and opportunities. As a leader it is important to mentor others, learn from others, and grow with others!

Successful leaders keep learning and applying their new knowledge to become better leasers. Developing your situational leadership skills can help you to advance your career, while you help increase productivity and positive culture within your team.