In this era of socialism, most people do not like to be over-controlled and over- managed. They tend to have higher free will and thinking, work and etc. Leaders will have different leadership styles to manage and lead their employees which are identified by the path–goal theory of leadership. This is why the attitude and the behavior of a leader will influence his/her subordinates on achieving their goals and objectives.
Leadership is mostly defined as a process of leading or influencing a group of people or an organization to achieve their goals. According to Yukl, ‘it is obvious that a person can be a leader without becoming a manager, and a person can be a manager without leading’. In my opinion, a leader has long-term of view which inspires and motivates his/her subordinates and work together to achieve their vision, mission, goals and objectives. And, a manager is a problem solver of the status quo which focuses on productivity and efficiency. Hence, they are different from each other.
Path-goal theory is related to leadership. It is a specific theory which is based on leadership styles or behaviour. Path-goal theory states on how leaders achieve high level of performance, influence own and their employees satisfaction and performance to achieve the performance and organisation’s goal. This is by clearing and clarifying the path, increasing the number of rewards that is available for them. Additionally, a leader can also change and regulate his/her leadership style of behaviour to the employees and task behaviours so that they will have the motivation to achieve the goals.
In other hand, the path goal theory identifies four types of leadership styles which are Directive, Supportive, Participative and Achievement-oriented. These leadership styles are based on two factors in the leadership behaviour which is initiating structure and consideration.