Final answer:
According to the path-goal theory, follower characteristics that are important for effective leadership include locus of control, task structure, need for achievement, and cognitive ability.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the path-goal theory, several follower characteristics are important for effective leadership:
- Followers' locus of control: This refers to a person's belief in their ability to control the outcomes of their actions. Followers with an internal locus of control tend to take responsibility for their own success or failure, while those with an external locus of control believe that external factors determine their outcomes.
- Followers' task structure: This refers to the degree of clarity and structure in the follower's work tasks. Followers who have clear and well-structured tasks are more likely to be motivated and satisfied.
- Followers' need for achievement: Some followers have a strong desire to achieve challenging goals and seek opportunities for personal growth and development.
- Followers' cognitive ability: This refers to the follower's mental capacity to understand and solve complex problems. Followers with higher cognitive ability tend to be more adaptable and capable of handling complex tasks.