Final answer:
To handle a team that is skilled yet lacks motivation, Pam should use a leadership style that combines high initiating structure with high consideration, to provide clear expectations while supporting the team's emotional needs. Option A is the correct answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
When dealing with a team that is able but unwilling to work, the level of readiness indicates an issue not with the skills or abilities of the employees but rather with their motivation and willingness to engage in the work.
Considering the team has the required skills (able) but lacks the motivation (unwilling), Pam should adopt a leadership style that is high in initiating structure and high in consideration. This means setting clear expectations and structure while also showing concern for the employees' feelings and creating a supportive environment.
Using a high initiating structure approach, Pam can establish clear tasks, responsibilities, and goals, which provides the necessary framework for the team to follow. However, due to the team's lack of willingness, a high degree of consideration is also required. In this case, consideration involves understanding their perspectives, valuing their contributions, and actively enhancing their engagement and job satisfaction.
Actions that exhibit high initiating structure and high consideration could include organized team meetings to define roles and expectations, one-on-one sessions to address individual concerns, recognition of achievements, and encouragement of team collaboration. These measures aim to foster a more engaged and committed team atmosphere, which can turn the unwillingness into willing, proactive participation in the work.
In conclusion, the best-suited behavior to deal with a team that is able but unwilling to work would be option (a) high initiating structure and high consideration.