Certified Nurse Manager and Leader (CNML) Practice Test

In Situational Leadership Theory, what should the leadership approach be based on?

1. Organizational hierarchy

2. Company profitability

3. Staff level of development concerning task

4. Employee personal preferences

The correct answer is: Staff level of development concerning task

In Situational Leadership Theory, the leadership approach should be based on the staff level of development concerning the task. This theory emphasizes the need for leaders to adjust their leadership style according to the readiness of their team members. Readiness, in this context, refers to the individual’s ability and willingness to take responsibility for a specific task. By assessing the developmental levels of employees — which includes their competence and confidence regarding tasks — leaders can adopt one of four styles: directing, coaching, supporting, or delegating. This tailored approach ensures that leaders provide the appropriate amount of guidance and support in accordance with the individual needs of their team members, fostering both employee growth and task completion effectively. Considering other options, organizational hierarchy and company profitability do not directly address the interpersonal dynamics and task-related development of employees, and employee personal preferences, while important, are secondary to the task readiness that situational leadership prioritizes in creating effective leadership strategies.