Why Situational Leadership® Is Even More Important In An AI Era

In today's rapidly changing world, technological advancements have become the norm – not the exception. The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) has greatly impacted how businesses operate, presenting new opportunities such as automating business processes, gaining insight through data analysis, and ultimately freeing up valuable time for your team.

However, it's essential to recognise that the implementation of AI doesn't signify the end of ‘human’ work but rather a shift in the nature of our work. It is within this context that Situational Leadership® gains even more significance. Situational Leadership® is all about acknowledging that people are unique – their needs, capabilities, and aspirations vary.

In an increasingly AI era, leaders can utilise the "extra time" afforded by AI to deepen relationships within their teams. They can spend more time understanding their team members' aspirations, strengths and areas for improvement. This can help foster a culture of trust, mutual respect and open communication, which plays a pivotal role in enhancing retention rates, facilitating upskilling efforts, boosting morale, and increasing overall productivity.

What is Situational Leadership®?

This leadership style and framework developed by Paul Hersey and Ken Blanchard in the late 1960s emphasises that effective leadership is not one-size-fits-all but should be tailored to the specific situation and needs of the team or individuals being led. This means that a leader must analyse the situation based on the Performance Readiness® Level of the individual and be able to adapt their leadership style to the circumstances at hand.

Why is Situational Leadership® More Important Now?

Adapting to Rapid Changes

With AI transforming the workplace at a rapid pace, leaders need to demonstrate flexibility and adapt their leadership styles in response to these changes. Situational Leadership® provides guidance on how to manage and implement change effectively to individuals and groups in the workplace based on their ability and willingness.

Managing Skill Transition

As AI takes over routine tasks, continuous learning is crucial. Situational Leadership® can identify individual learning needs and adapt their leadership style to foster an environment of continuous learning and growth, whether that be changing the way they communicate, giving instructions, or providing support based on what would be most effective for that team or individual.

Navigating Uncertainty

Understandably, the rise of AI introduces a degree of uncertainty in the workplace. Situational Leadership® is well-equipped to manage uncertainty in such circumstances by identifying the challenges and opportunities involved. Leaders can focus on equipping employees with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate these challenges, helping them understand both the potential benefits of new technologies and how to seize opportunities presented by AI.

Utilising AI in the Workplace

AI is here to stay and it’s evolving day by day. As new tools and technologies emerge, it becomes imperative to equip employees with the knowledge and expertise to evaluate and assess these tools. Situational Leadership® helps leaders understand how to best influence their employees so that they feel empowered to embrace new technologies and ways of working. Ultimately enhancing productivity and motivation.

Change is inevitable, but with newfound confidence in navigating and guiding your teams through times of transition, Situational Leadership® can help provide the necessary support to inspire your employees to perform at the best of their abilities, thereby positively influencing business performance.

If you’re eager to develop your leadership skills and inspire your team to success, you can discover our Situational Leadership® accredited programmes here. For further information or advice, please contact our friendly training experts on 01252 618 400 or email theteam@gbscorporate.com.

Situational Leadership® and Performance Readiness® are registered trademarks of Leadership Studies, Inc. dba The Center for Leadership Studies. Copyright ©2015, Leadership Studies, Inc. All Rights Reserved.