According to Hersey and Blanchard's situational approach to leadership, the participating style of leadership has :

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is 3:
The participating style, denoted as S3 in Hersey and and Blanchard's Situational Leadership Model, is defined by a **low task orientation and a high relationship orientation**. This leadership approach is prescribed for followers who are classified as R3, meaning they are **able but unwilling or insecure** about performing a task. Since the followers already possess the competence (able), the leader does not need to provide extensive instruction or direction, resulting in low task behavior. However, because the followers lack the motivation or confidence (unwilling/insecure), the leader must provide a significant amount of supportive, two-way communication and encouragement, which translates to high relationship behavior, to facilitate decision-making and build commitment.

The incorrect option is 1:
High task and low relationship orientation describes the **Telling (S1)** leadership style. This style is necessary for followers at the R1 readiness level, who are both unable and unwilling or insecure, meaning they lack both the competence and the commitment for the task. Consequently, the leader must focus heavily on defining roles and providing specific instructions (High Task) while offering little personal support (Low Relationship).

The incorrect option is 2:
High task and high relationship orientation is the **Selling (S2)** style. This style is appropriate for R2 followers who are unable but willing or confident. The leader needs to engage in high task behavior because the follower still requires a great deal of guidance and instruction due to their low ability. Simultaneously, the leader must use high relationship behavior to reinforce the follower's enthusiasm and willingness, essentially "selling" the importance and methods of the task.

The incorrect option is 4:
Low task and low relationship orientation defines the **Delegating (S4)** style. This style is reserved for the most mature followers, R4, who are both able and willing or confident. These individuals are competent and highly motivated, requiring minimal support or direction from the leader. The leader therefore allows the follower to take full responsibility for decisions and execution, using both low task and low relationship behavior.