Action Centred Leadership
A model proposed by John Adair (1973) argued that it is not who you are but what you do which establishes you as a leader. A
leader needs to balance the needs of the task, the team and the
individual, shown clearly in the diagram below in his 3 circle model. The
effective leader carries out the functions and demonstrates the
behaviours appropriate to the circles, varying the level according to
the needs of the situation.
The leader whilst balancing the three circles, sits in his/her helicopter above the process, ensuring the best possible overview of what is happening.
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Leaders Behaviour under Task · Providing clear Objectives · Providing appropriate procedures · Ensuring there is evidence of progress · Ensuring avoidance of digression · Ensuring deadlines are met Leaders Behaviour under Team · Commitment · Trust & Openness · Sense of purpose · Stability · Cohesion · Success · Fun Leaders Behaviour under Individual · To be included · To make a contribution · To be respected · To receive Feedback · To feel safe · To grow |
The Leaders Blueprint
KEY ACTION |
TASK |
TEAM |
INDIVIDUAL` | |
|
Define Objectives |
Identify Tasks and Constraints |
Hold team meetings Share Commitment |
Clarify Objectives Gain Acceptance | |
PLAN |
Gather
Information
|
Consider options Check resources |
Consult Encourage Ideas Develop Suggestions Assess skills | |
Decide
|
Prioritise Time scales Standards |
Structure |
Allocate Jobs Delegate Set targets | |
|
Brief |
Clarify Objectives Describe plan |
Explain decisions Listen Answer questions Enthuse Check understanding | ||
|
Monitor Support |
Assess Progress Maintain standards |
Co-ordinate Reconcile conflict Recognise effort |
Advise/Praise Assist/Reassure Counsel Discipline | |
|
Evaluate |
Summarise Progress Review Objectives Re-plan Objectives if necessary |
Recognise and gain from Success Learn from Mistakes |
Appraise Performance | |
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Guide and Train Give Praise | ||||