This is an example of a leader behavior—specifically, an achievement-oriented leadership style. According to path–goal theory, different leadership styles should be used in different situations. Leadership can also be directive, supportive, or participative.
You have just accepted a management position at a small handbag factory in Thailand. Workers spend their days doing the same task over and over: riveting a strap, sewing a seam, or polishing a completed bag. Conditions are difficult, to say the least, and the previous manager convinced the employees that they don’t have the skills they need to keep their jobs. Prior to leaving for Thailand, your boss told you to be prepared for workers to treat you with the utmost respect. Thai businesses tend to follow strict rules. Everyone has a specific role to play, and management hierarchies are strictly observed. Because employees have structured tasks and the formal authority system in the factory is clear , according to goal–path theory, you should use the supportive style of management in this example.
