Path Goal Theory

The Path-goal Theory

William Washington

MGT380: Leadership for Organizations

Prof. Frank Bucaria
July 7, 2013

The Path-goal Theory
The Path-goal theory is helpful within an organization because leaders are supple and can
modify their technique-when needed and helps leaders motivate followers to accomplish goals.
The characteristics and traits contribute to effective leadership. According to our text, “An
Introduction to Leadership”, the Path-goal theory focuses on the leader and the responsibility to
motivate followers to reach personal and organizational objectives (Daft, 2011).The Path-goal
theory is multifaceted, but practical. It supplies a set of assumptions about how leadership styles
will work together with characteristics of followers and the responsibilities of influencing
motivation.   The theory provides away how leaders can help followers accomplish tasks.  
In order for leaders to be effective in their role of leadership- the ability to influence
followers to achieve common goals through shared purposes (Rost, 1993; Rost & Barker, 2000),
they must utilize four key elements; directive, supportive, participative, and achievement
orientation. (Weiss, J. W., 2011).

The directive-goal theory tells followers what is expected of them and how to plan,

control, and monitor tasks, make schedules, and follow procedures (Weiss, J. W., 2011).
The directive style is superlative for the responsibilities that are ambiguous, unclear
organizational rules, dogmatic, and authoritarian. The supportive leader is cordial and
helpful and shows concern for followers' socioemotional needs and well–being (Weiss, J. W.,
2011). The supportive style is superlative for the responsibilities that are boring, not challenging,
routine and mechanical, not satisfied, need relationship, and human touch. The participative
leader consults with followers, solicits their input, asks for opinions and suggestions, meets with
employees in their work spaces, and...