9.3 What is the role of the context? Contingency Approaches to Leadership

Fiedler's Contingency Theory

theory stating that leadership effectiveness is dependent on the characteristics of the leader and the characteristics of the situation

least perferred coworker scale

-fielder classifies leaders using the least preferred coworker scale -leaders who describe their LPC in positive terms are high on the scale and considered relationship oriented leaders

Three conditions for creating situational favorableness

1. leader-subordinate relations 2. Position power 3. task structure

Employees are motivated when

1. their effort will lead to high performance 2. their high performance will be rewarded 3. the rewards they will receive are valuable to them

Vroom-Yetton Model

A model that describes the different ways in which leaders can make decisions and guides leaders in determining the extent to which subordinates should participate in decision making.

Path-Goal Theory of Leadership

A theory that states that the most important aspect in leadership is the follower's expectation that a task can be accomplished and that it will lead to rewards.

group expertise

Team members' knowledge or expertise in relation to this problem

participative leadership

a leadership style in which the leader consults employees for their suggestions and input before making decisions

Situational Leadership

a theory that argues that the most effective leadership style varies according to leader-member relations, the nominal leader's power, and the task structure

Four leadership styles

directive, supportive, participative, achievement oriented

Achievement-oriented leadership

leadership behavior characterized by setting challenging goals and seeking to improve performance

high-LPC score

relationship oriented

low LPC score

task oriented

Team competence

the ability of team members to work together in solving problems

goal alignment

Developing goals compatible among business units and consistent with higher-level goals of that organization.

Leader Expertise

Does the leader have significant knowledge or expertise regarding the problem?

likelihood of commitment

How likely is it that employees will trust the leader's decision and commit to it?

importance of commitment

Is it important that employees "buy in" to the decision?

Decision Significance

Is the decision significant to the success of the project or the organization?

supportive leaders

Leaders who provide emotional support to employees. They treat employees well, care about them on a personal level, and they are encouraging.

directive leaders

Leaders who provide specific directions to their employees. They lead employees by clarifying role expectations, setting schedules, and making sure that employees know what to do on a given work day.