Final answer:
Leadership according to path-goal theory motivates followers when leaders tailor their style to meet the specific needs and desires of their employees, promoting positive relationships and greater effectiveness.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to path-goal theory, leadership generates motivation when leaders adjust their style to match followers' needs. This theory suggests that the effectiveness of a leader is based on their ability to modify their leadership approach to align with the needs of their employees. Leaders who can provide a well-structured environment with clear responsibilities and little ambiguity can promote positive leader-follower relationships, especially for those with a high need for leadership. Conversely, for employees with a strong need for autonomy and growth, leaders who provide developmental opportunities and allow for employee input in goal setting are likely to be more effective.
In essence, path-goal theory advocates for flexible and adaptive leadership that recognizes the individual needs and desires of followers. It is not solely about setting high expectations, numerous payoffs, or challenging environments; rather, it is about leaders' responsiveness and adaptability to the unique motivators and requirements of their employees.