HBR On Leadership How—and When—to Adapt Your Leadership Style
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Apr 16, 2025 Jennifer Jordan, an IMD leadership professor and social psychologist, dives into the evolving landscape of leadership in a VUCA world. She discusses the shift from command-and-control styles to more adaptive approaches, emphasizing the need for leaders to fluidly navigate between various styles. Jordan highlights seven critical tensions leaders face and offers strategies for balancing listening with directing, making the case for personal growth in leadership adaptability. Real-world examples illustrate how successful leaders engage their teams during transformational periods.
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Balance Traditional & Adaptive Leadership
- Effective leaders toggle between traditional command-and-control and adaptive, collaborative styles based on context.
- Seven leadership tensions represent this balance, like power holding vs. sharing and tactical vs. visionary focus.
Shift Leadership Styles Wisely
- Leaders should avoid relying exclusively on one leadership style side to prevent downsides.
- They must develop emotional intelligence to decide when to shift between listening, telling, holding power, or sharing it.
Assess Before Leading
- Leaders need to assess the situation and feelings of their team to choose the right leadership style.
- Asking context, situational, and emotional intelligence questions helps leaders adapt appropriately.