10.4 What Is the Role of the Context? Contingency Approaches to Leadership
Specify the contexts in which various leadership styles are effective.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES 1. Situational Leadership
Table 10.1 Situational Leadership Theory helps leaders match their style to follower readiness levels.
Follower Readiness Level
Competence (Low)
Competence (Low)
Competence (Moderate to High)
Competence (High)
Commitment (High)
Commitment (Low)
Commitment (Variable)
Commitment (High)
Recommended Leader Style
Directing Behavior
Coaching Behavior
Supporting Behavior
Delegating Behavior
2. Path-Goal Theory of Leadership
Directive leaders: Those leaders who provide specific directions to their
employees.
Supportive leaders: Those leaders who provide emotional support to
employees.
Participative leaders: Those leaders who make sure that employees are
involved in making important decisions.
Achievement-oriented leaders: Those leaders who set goals for employees
and encourage them to reach their goals.
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