What is the fourth style of situational leadership?

The fourth style of situational leadership is delegating. This approach is characterized by low directive and low supportive behavior, meaning that the leader provides little guidance and allows team members the autonomy to take responsibility for their tasks. In this style, the leader trusts their team members to be competent and self-reliant, encouraging them to make decisions and solve problems independently.

Delegating is especially effective when team members are experienced, motivated, and capable of working without close supervision. This enables them to fully take ownership of their roles, fostering a sense of empowerment and accountability. In a fire service context, using the delegating style can enhance operational efficiency during routine operations where trained personnel are competent and able to handle responsibilities without needing constant oversight.

The other leadership styles—directing, supporting, and selling—each involve varying degrees of directive and supportive behaviors. While they are useful in different situations, they do not reflect the same level of autonomy and self-direction seen in the delegating style. Thus, understanding the appropriateness of delegating is crucial for effective leadership in flexible, dynamic environments like firefighting and emergency response.