Guide to Management Theory of Paul Hersey

Situational leadership theory and what it can do for you
By Geraldine McGowan

The management theory of Paul Hersey was developed in conjunction with another management guru, Ken Blanchard. Hersey's management theory boils down to the need for leaders to change leadership styles as situations warrant, and that, as leaders, they must recognize that employees have different levels of development. The style of leadership should mesh with the stage of employee development.

Hersey's theory also states that it is the leader who has to change his style to work with the employee--not the employee changing his style for the leader. Hersey says that situational leadership is a model and not a theory. In his thinking, a model can be applied to real life situations, while theories are for analysis rather than application.

1. Paul Hersey's theory of situational leadership proposes that leaders are not born and can be made with the training.

2. Hersey's management theory of organizational behavior benefits employees and the company because the adaptable management style allows employees at any stage of development to grow.

3. Employee development levels are based on commitment and competence. Leadership styles are directing, coaching, supporting and delegating.

Action Steps

The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find the model for management theory of Paul Hersey Situational leadership's model is easy to understand because it is based on four simple points. Hersey says the simplicity is part of the reason why situational leadership works.

I recommend: Chimaera Consulting promotes situational leadership in its role as consultants. Here it includes the model for situational leadership on its website. You can find more information about Paul Hersey and his management theories from the Center for Leadership Studies, a consulting, training and coaching organization founded by Paul Hersey.

Find a course or seminar that uses situational leadership theory Taking a course or seminar, or going to a lecture can improve your leadership skills and benefit you, your company and your employees.

I recommend: Summit Advisors gives two-day training seminars on your company's site. You can also hire a speaker on situational leadership. Character of Excellence offers training and programs for leadership development from different theories including the situational leadership model.

Get certified in situational leadership theory If you are a consultant, inspirational speaker, or life coach training in situational leadership will help your clients and help you and your business.

I recommend: The University of Houston Downtown has a program called Project Leadership. In this program, based on Hersey's work, students can earn a certificate in situational leadership training. MLCP offers situational leadership training for people who want to consult or coach. This, too, is built on the management theory of Paul Hersey.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

Paul Hersey says that situational leadership requires leaders to connect with their employees. The higher up one goes on the corporate ladder, the less connection leaders have to the people working for them. The underlying suggestion is that it is important to retain connections at each stage of promotion.