Which style in situational leadership reflects low concern for both tasks and relationships and corresponds to very high readiness?

• A. Telling
• B. Selling
• C. Participating
• D. Delegating

Answer: (D)

Delegating is the style that fits when a team is fully capable and confident, so the leader steps back and provides little direction or relationship-building support. In situational leadership, readiness level four represents high competence and high commitment. At this level, followers can handle tasks independently and take responsibility without close supervision, so there’s little need for the leader to direct or coach. That’s why delegating is described as showing low concern for both tasks and relationships while aligning with very high readiness—the leader trusts the team to manage the work and the dynamics on their own.

The other styles focus more on either task or relationship involvement. A directive approach emphasizes tasks with minimal relationship support; a coaching or selling approach blends task guidance with relationship interaction; a participative style increases relationship focus while reducing task-directed control. None of these match the low attention to both task and relationship that characterizes delegation and high readiness.