Use Direction and Support as Two Dials
Distinguish directive behavior from supportive behavior when adapting leadership style.
The reframe: direction and support are not opposites. They are two controls. A common manager mistake is to choose between being clear and being caring. Situational leadership says the better question is dosage. Some moments need high clarity and high care. Some need low direction but high encouragement. Some need high direction with little emotional processing because the person is ready and the work is urgent. Direction reduces ambiguity Direction includes standards, sequencing, definitions of done, constraints, and checkpoints. It is not micromanagement when the task is new or the risk is high. Support reduces threat Support includes listening, confidence-building,…
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