Theories of Leadership

Question 1

trait theories

Answer 1

argues that leaders have distinct personal characteristics, that leaders are born, and companies will spend lots of time and money trying to find these people

• Like giving job applicants a questionnaire to separate leaders and non-leaders

Question 2

behavioral theories

Answer 2

argues that leaders can be trained, leaders behave in a certain way and there is ONE best way to lead

Question 3

contingency theories

Answer 3

argues there is not one best way to lead, but depends on the situational factors of the organization (what does leadership depend on)

Question 4

situational leadership theory

Answer 4

argues that leaders need subordinates that are willing and able to do their job

Question 5

Task-Relationship Behavior chart:
what’s in the top left, right and bottom left, right

Answer 5

Top left: highly skilled employees that are unmotivated to do the job

Top right (WORST): high task and relationship management needed, because staff are unmotivated and incapable (worst scenario)

Bottom left (BEST): little management needed because employees are highly motivated and skilled

Bottom right: lots of task management because employees are unskilled but highly motivated (think of a new hire)