Telling is the lowest level of leadership style. Most new employees require direct instructions, so this is called the “Telling” or “Directing” style. The follower is characterized by low competence and high commitment, being unable to comply, with possible feelings of insecurity.
The leader must focus highly on tasks, rather than a relationship with the employee, as a relationship does not yet exist.
When an employee can’t do the job because they are unknowledgeable, the leader must spend much more time working with the employee, offering clear instructions and regular follow up. The leader must be encouraging and motivational, offering praise for positive results and correction for less than positive results. The idea is to motivate the follower to rise to the next level of ability.
This is a very leader-driven stage.