Leadership Style

Leadership Style

LDR/531

October 23, 2013

Leadership Style

When an individual thinks about what the definition of a leader is and what it entails, multiple answers come to mind. However, when I think about the definition of a leader and what it involves I think about my boss/mentor Ms. B. She is a very strong individual, a force to be reckoned with and a leader by right. It is a known fact, not only is she strong, she has so many other qualities that make her a great leader. Ms. B has worked in a corporate realm for a number of years. She has always exhibited a facet of leadership with her family as well as work which I have admired for many years. She is an individual who gives guidance to everyone within the company. Employees, directors as well as other departments look at her as being the Matriarch of the company. Over the years I have watched Ms. B and she utilizes multiple effective leadership styles.

Path Goal

The leadership theory that fits Ms. B's leadership style is the path goal theory. The path goal theory states it is the leader's responsibility to assist followers in attaining their goals and to provide the necessary direction and/or support to ensure their goals are compatible with overall objectives of the group or organization. (House, 1971) The path goal theory has two different styles of leadership, supportive and directive. According to the readings supportive leadership is showing the consideration and concern for the needs of the followers. (Yukl, 2013) This theory includes assisting with increasing a follower's self-esteem accompanied with making the job increasingly interesting.

The other leadership style is directive which definitely fits Ms. B's personality. With this style the individual provides appropriate guidance and advises the followers of what needs to be done. When speaking about my mentor she has always been supportive of any and everyone she comes in contact with. Any goals or aspirations an employee has she makes sure to provide guidance to fulfill those goals. She is a firm believer of "Each One Teach One" and because she is the type of individual that shares her knowledge this has helped her to become a successful leader.

Relationship Leadership Theory

This theory is also known as a transformational theory it is based upon the relationship between a leader and their followers. An individual utilizing this particular theory focuses on motivating everyone in the group and not just worrying about themselves. This leadership style fits Ms. B because she has always been an individual to push a person to reach his or her full potential and she believes in being a team