By Phillip Baggett Carol Bradtke Chelsea Steuber Craig Kibler Contingency Theory By Phillip Baggett Carol Bradtke Chelsea Steuber Craig Kibler

Defining Contingency Theory Contingency theory is a class of behavioral theory that claims that there is no best way to organize a corporation, to lead a company, or to make decisions. Instead, the optimal course of action is contingent (dependent) upon the internal and external situation.

Contingency Theory Fiedler’s Contingency Leadership Model Hersey and Blanchard’s Contingency model of Leadership

Leader Effectiveness Leader-member relations Task structure Position power

Fiedler’s Contingency Leadership Model

Four Leader Personality Tests Co- Workers Scale Situational Favorableness Leader-Situation Match and mismatch

Four Leadership Styles Provides specific instructions and closely supervise performance (Telling) Explain decisions and provide opportunity for clarification (Selling) Share ideas and facilitates in decision making (Participating) Turn over responsibility for decisions and implementation (Delegating)  

Follower Readiness Follower abilities effect required Leadership Style   Two Elements determine Follower Readiness Degree of Ability Willingness to perform task  Match Follower Readiness to complementary Leadership Style

Four Levels of Follower Readiness Needs structure and direction; possibly consequences Beginning to perform task, but willing to learn Competent at task performance, still needs input from leader Highest task competence, committed and motivated

Hersey and Blanchard’s Contingency model of Leadership

Conclusion Contingency Models offer promising theories as a guide Fit with Systems approach by recognizing the background factors, group roles and goals that influence leadership style Leaders gravitate to one or two types of leadership style Important to try to be flexible