Skill/Will Matrix

Who created it

Paul Hersey and Ken Blanchard

What is it

The Skill/Will Matrix is a way to understand individuals along this plane. How capable someone is at completing a task (skill), against their desire to complete the task (will). Based on where an individual sits in the Skill/Will Matrix will result in different leadership strategies to get the individual to a successful outcome. 

BREAKING DOWN THE MODEl

Low Skill/Low Will

Individuals with low motivation and low capability to perform the work or task. Individual may be in the wrong type of role. The individual may also lack the skills and thus avoid doing the task for fear of underperforming.

Low Skill/High Will

Individuals not yet capable of completing the task but have high motivation to do so.

High Skill/Low Will

Individual is capable in completing the task but are not motivated to do so.

High Skill/High Will

Individual is capable of completing the task and is motivated to do it.

Why it’s useful

As a leader, depending on where an individual falls in the Skill/Will Matrix, different leadership styles can help them succeed. Being able to identify and adapt can help staff elevate their performance.

Low Skill/Low Will

Leadership Style: Direct/Prescriptive

Have direct view of the entire work process and focus on task orientation. Be clear about what you want the employee to do and break down the project into a series of sub-tasks.

Low Skill/High Will

Leadership Style: Supportive Coaching

Look for ways to upskill and coach the employee into taking more ownership of projects. Work with the employee on challenging tasks, guiding them through the process.

High Skill/Low Will

Leadership Style: Motivational Coaching

Have the employee participate in the decision making process and gain more ownership over the task. Look for ways to boost confidence and motivation by using praise, reframing, and greater involvement in tasks that give the employee energy.

High Skill/High Will

Leadership Style: Delegate

The employee has the skills and motivation to tackle the task at hand. Set clear goals and deliverables and leave the employee to take full ownership over the process. Check in every now and again to brainstorm and work through any blockers.