The Four Styles Of Path-Goal Theory Of Leadership

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Many people misunderstand the role of a manger and a leader. The purpose of this essay is to explain what path-goal theory of leadership is, to identify the four styles of leadership styles of path goal theory, and to explain when they are most appropriately used. Ogbeide (cited in Obbeide 2011) defines that no matter what type of leadership styles are practiced, leadership mainly involves a powerful relationship between leaders and followers to accomplish a specific goal. According to Williams, McWilliams & Lawrence (2017) leaders are concerned with doing the right things like getting the most output with the least amount of inputs, while managers are concerned with doing things right and completing activities so that organisational goals are attained. Organisations need both managers and leaders. Employees of managers tend to complete their assigned task because they fear punishment, while followers of leaders tend to accomplish goals because they want to obtain higher personal satisfaction.

According to Williams, McWilliams and Lawrence (2017), path goal theory is a leadership theory that states that leaders can increase satisfaction, motivation and performance of subordinates by understanding subordinates style of working, coaching, guiding and also rewarding subordinates for effective work performance. There are two conditions for a leader to meet for rewarding, clarifying and clearing paths to increase motivation and determination of subordinates. Firstly, behaviour