An insight into the Path Goal Theory for leading your workforce

In the past ten years or so, we have seen an abundance of new management theories/models being introduced. However, there’s no management theory that’s worth calling a perfect one, also it is practically impossible for all managers to try and apply each of them. Does that mean, a manager should pay no attention to these theories? Well, the answer is in negative, for most of these models are laid down by successful managers or erudite scholars. Therefore, you must go through all of them once in a while, for the sake of learning one thing or two, even if you are not looking to adapt.

One of these management theories is referred to as the “Path-Goal theory of leadership” that has been jotted down by Robert House. In simple words, the theory describes the role of managers in setting goals and then laying down a roadmap to reach there, more importantly it discusses four different types of approaches that a manager could use according to different circumstances. The theory is a good reminder of the fact that management is much more than hiring and firing employees, or maintaining discipline in the office. The job doesn’t end on stating the desired results and pointing towards the resources; it actually starts from that point and remains a manager's duty to support, motivate and guide his/her workers all the way through. 

Following are the four different styles of management (or leadership, for that matter) described in the theory. Remember, you don’t need to choose and then stick with only one of them; an efficient manager should be able to adapt any of the following styles, according to specific situations or workforce.

Supportive approach:

A manager is ought to be supportive to his/her subordinates, right? Still, managers like to carry that “bossy aura” around them, most of the times. As a result, subordinates feel reluctant to speak to their managers. Now, managers are supposed to be the most experienced and well-versed person in the workforce, how efficient do you think will be the workforce, where the most qualified person is reduced to sit in his/her office and look into various reports once in a while?

Directive Approach:

This is the standard approach now days; managers set the targets, assign tasks and resources and provide the subordinates with guidelines. This approach is not bad, given that the workers are qualified and experienced enough.

Achievement Oriented Approach:

This approach is recommended in challenging projects (for example when you need to motivate your sales staff to introduce a new product in the market). At such instances, you need to raise the bar, and then push them to rise above by offering sufficient rewards and appraisals.

Participative Approach:

In this style of management, the manager encourages the participation of each and every member in the team, especially when implementing a change or making some important decision regarding business.