The path-goal theory focuses on how to motivate the followers to reach specific goals (Northouse, 2016, p.115). Depending upon the work environment one works in the leader’s behavior may change. Directive leadership, supportive leadership, participative leadership, and achievement-oriented leadership are all focused on what the leader must provide to the followers in order to reach the best outcome (Northouse, 2016, p.117-118).

Directive leadership is needed when the task is unclear or more difficult (Northouse, 2016, p.121). Directive leadership is when the leader tells the followers what is required of them and what must be done in order to get there, or otherwise can be defined as very to the point and directional (Northouse, 2016, p.117). I remember when I first began instructing dance classes and how concerned I was with what exactly I needed to do, and how to prepare. The director of athletics at my specific work place used directive leadership at first in order to prepare me, and relieve the stress I had due to the uncertainty of what to do or expect. Directive leadership was beneficial at first within this work environment, but once I gained experience through instructing two or three classes I was no longer in need of directive leadership.

After mastering what needs be done, the leadership style I was in need of was different than before, and called for different individuals to deliver this specific type of leadership. Supportive leadership is the leader’s ability to present them self as friendly, and in concern with the followers needs (Northouse, 2016, p.117). The transformation from directive to supportive occurred quite quickly, though the director of athletics was not the only one providing this leadership style, I also looked to those above me who have been teaching for multiple years when it came to asking advice. I no longer was in need of receiving information on what exactly should occur within my class, and how to teach; instead I was looking to receive information on other aspects.  Choosing costumes, games, and rewards I tended to look to those who had experience teaching instead of the director of athletics.

As I gained more experience with instructing dance, I began to grow. Instead of being the lowest on the totem pole, I was now exposed to participative leadership. Participative leadership is when leaders look to followers to share ideas and help with decision making (Northouse, 2016, p.118). Not only were my fellow dance instructors seeking my opinion, but also the athletic director. After about a year of being involved with this specific business I found myself helping make decisions, such as what the theme for the show should be, what I think about adding certain levels to much more. This specific type of leadership is very motivating in the sense that the follower feels of importance and becomes more confident within their job.

Though only three of the four were presented does not make the last of less importance. Instead, I just have not come to experience achievement-oriented leadership, or forcing the followers to perform on the highest level possible within instructing dance. Though, it is also important to mention that not all of these styles will be used, some leaders will demonstrate all while some may only demonstrate one. One or four, it is still a part of the path-goal theory (Northouse, 2016, p.118). Different situations call for different leaders, where some situations may call for more than one approach at once and others not (Northouse, 2016, p.118).

References

Northouse, P.G. (2016).  Leadership: Theory and Practice. Los Angeles: Sage Publications.