Certified Nurse Manager and Leader (CNML) Practice Test

Which of the following describes the stages of situational leadership?

1. Planning, executing, monitoring, finishing

2. Directing, coaching, supporting, delegating

3. Collaborating, managing, leading, evaluating

4. Assisting, guiding, directing, reflecting

The correct answer is: Directing, coaching, supporting, delegating

The stages of situational leadership, as defined by Hersey and Blanchard, focus on adapting leadership styles based on the maturity and competence of team members. The correct stages—directing, coaching, supporting, and delegating—reflect a clear progression in the leader’s approach as team members develop their skills and confidence over time. In the directing stage, the leader provides clear instructions and closely supervises tasks, which is essential for team members who may be inexperienced or require significant guidance. As team members grow, the coaching stage involves offering more support while still providing direction, facilitating their learning and development. The supporting stage signifies a move towards more collaborative decision-making, where the leader encourages team members to take more initiative while still providing emotional and motivational support. Finally, the delegating stage empowers team members to take ownership of their tasks and make independent decisions, reflecting their increased competence and confidence. This progression is vital for effectively managing a diverse workforce and helps to cultivate a team capable of handling various challenges autonomously. The other answer choices do not accurately encapsulate these specific stages of situational leadership, focusing instead on broader management concepts or unrelated processes.