Path Goal Theory Of Leadership Flashcards, test questions and answers

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What is Path Goal Theory Of Leadership?

The Path Goal Theory of Leadership is a theory proposed by leadership scholars Robert House and Thomas D. Jago. It suggests that the primary responsibility of a leader is to provide guidance to followers in order for them to achieve their goals. The theory states that leaders must identify the goals of their followers, assess the environment they are working in, and then select appropriate strategies to assist them in reaching their goals successfully. The leader should then actively monitor and provide feedback on progress towards those goals, adjust strategies if necessary, and ultimately reward performance when targets are achieved. The Path Goal Theory has four core components: directive leadership, supportive leadership, participative leadership and achievement-oriented leadership. Directive leaders set clear expectations for their followers and provide direction by giving specific instructions on how tasks should be completed or what decisions need to be made. Supportive leaders create an environment where employees feel supported through encouragement, trust and recognition for effort put forth. Participative leaders involve their employees in decision making processes, allowing for more autonomy in the workplace while taking input from others into account when making decisions. Achievement-oriented leaders focus on results-driven outcomes from their team members by setting challenging yet attainable objectives that stretch each individual’s capabilities but also remain achievable with hard work and dedication. Overall, the Path Goal Theory of Leadership is based upon an understanding that a leader’s role is largely dependent upon the needs of his/her followers at any given time; as such it emphasizes flexibility over uniformity when it comes to managing people effectively. By providing clear directives while also allowing employees freedom within set boundaries; offering support when needed; involving employees in decision making processes; setting challenging yet achievable objectives; actively monitoring progress towards those objectives; being willing to adjust strategies if necessary; rewarding success where deserved all these factors combine together create an atmosphere where both leader and follower can be successful together as a team unit working towards common goals within any given organization or work environment.