Question

Discuss the main premises of the Path-Goal theory of leadership.

Please use at least 130 words. Thank you!

Answer 1

Path-Goal theory of leadership is a theory in which the leaders choose specific behaviours that are most suitable for the employees needs and the overall environment with an aim to guide the employees through the path so that they achieve the organisational goal.

It generally has 3 major steps:

1. Determining the employee and environmental characteristics: This includes determining the ability, experience of the employees and assessing the environmental factors that includes the task structure and the workgroup.
2. Selecting a leadership style: Based on the above inputs the leader can choose a leadership style that best suits the situation. Different leadership styles can be Directive, Supportive, Participative and Achievement oriented.
3. Focusing on motivational factors that will help the employee succeed: Having done the above two steps, the final step is to motivate the employees in different terms. This may include defining the goal, clarifying the path, removing obstacles, providing support etc.

Please do not forget to upvote the answer. Thanks :)