In this lesson we read about the Path-goal theory. The path-goal theory is based on how leaders motivate their followers to achieve goals (Hamel, 2021). According to the path-goal theory, effective leaders provide rewards for their followers, which are considered the “goals”. Effective leaders also guide their followers to the best way of getting to that goal, which is considered the “path” (Hamel, 2021). A good leader’s actions should help a follower believe, that if they put in effort, they will complete a task, which will lead to a desired outcome (Hughes, Ginnett, & Curphy, 2012). The path-goal theory believes that a leader must understand what leadership style motivates their followers, and how to use that style effectively (Hamel, 2021). Simply put, when followers are on a path to their goals, they will meet obstacles and it is the leader’s role to help remove them.
One of the strengths of the path-goal theory is that it provides us an understanding of how different leadership behaviors affect the satisfaction and work behaviors of followers (Hamel, 2021). The path-goal theory describes four different leader behaviors. As I was learning about them, I started wondering which of the four would work best in real life? Is one better than the other, or is it purely situation based? In this blog I will look at the four behavior styles individually and review them. The four leader behaviors that I will be reviewing are: directive leadership, supportive leadership, participative leadership, and achievement-oriented leadership.
The directive leadership style is characterized by giving followers instructions of what is expected of them, how it is done, and what the time line is (Hamel, 2021). Directive leadership styles are common for instructors of large classes (Hamel, 2021). I believe that the directive leadership style is the easiest leadership style out of the four to adapt to any environment. I think that regardless of what the leader is in charge of, good instructions and having clear expectations is beneficial. However, I do agree that it is the most suitable for a leader that may be in charge of a large number of followers. By having clear directions, it is easier to avoid misunderstandings and get everyone on the same page. The supportive leadership style is known to be friendly and approachable (Hamel, 2021). The main goal of a supportive leader is to make their followers work pleasant (Hamel, 2021). I think that the supportive leadership style is perfect for a leader with a small number of followers that they work closely with. When a leader works closely with their followers, they should try and treat them well and make sure that they enjoy their work. I could see the supportive leadership style most suitable for a CEO of a very small business or for a personal trainer.
Participative leadership is when leaders involve their followers in decision-making (Hamel, 2021). Participative leaders are known to consult their followers before making decisions and even rely on followers in making decision (Hamel, 2021). Out of the four leadership styles, I think that the participative leadership style is the one that would work in least cases. I believe that because I think most leaders want to make decisions and have some “power” over their followers. I do still believe that it works in some cases. A scenario where I think that the participative leadership would work well is when a leader is new to a field or new to the task at hand. In some cases, subordinates might have worked with a case or in a field for much longer than a leader. In those cases, a leader should let their subordinates participate and be a part of decision making. Even though the leader might have the final say in decisions, they should definitely include the followers in the decision-making process. The last leadership style is achievement-oriented leadership. For achievement-oriented leadership, it is typical to challenge followers to perform work at the highest level possible (Hamel, 2021). These leaders have high standards for their followers, and continuously try to improve them (Hamel, 2021). I think that achievement-oriented leaders are best suitable for groups where the followers are highly motivated. A good example of this would be a Coach on a division 1 sports team where the players are highly motivated and willing to be challenged.
So which leadership style is best in the real world? First, we have to remember that leaders can change their styles with different followers and different situations (Hamel, 2021). A leadership style is not set in stone, the same leader could use several styles. However, I do believe that some styles are better than others based on the variability that they have. Like I mentioned earlier, the directive leadership style works well in most environments. I cannot think of the harm of having good directions and expectations, no matter who the followers are. I also think that the directive style allows the followers to have the freedom of dealing with issues in their own way. Unlike the other leadership styles, the directive leader lets the followers know what is expected, and lets them handle the work more freely. Personally, I would prefer the directive leadership style over the other three. The directive style works in most environments, as well as allows the followers to do work freely while having clear guidelines. Therefore, I think that it is the best and most useful leadership style. Lastly, I do still think that the most successful leaders combine some of the leadership styles depending on what the followers require. I do not think that there is only one leadership style that works, they can all be beneficial in some cases.
References:
Hughes, R. L., Ginnett, R. C., & Curphy, G. J. (2012). Leadership: Enhancing the lessons of experience. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill Companies.
Hamel, R. (2021). Lesson 6: Contingency & Path-Goal Theories