Leadership is described in many ways, but its central concern is influencing people as they work toward shared goals. This lesson examines the leadership process and the ways effective leaders help a group function and make progress.
Leadership is not captured by a single description. Some definitions emphasize what a leader does, such as initiating structure so group members understand how to carry out a task. Other definitions focus on the leader’s role as the group’s center of activity, an instrument for achieving goals, or a person whose qualities and influence shape the group.
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What is leadership as a social influence relationship?
A relationship between two or more people who depend on one another and influence one another as they pursue mutual goals in a group situation.
What is initiating structure?
A leadership behavior that clarifies how work is organized or how group members should complete a task.
What are task needs?
The group’s needs related to making progress toward its objective, such as coordinating work and overcoming obstacles.
What are maintenance needs?
The group’s needs related to helping members fit and work together through cooperation, shared norms, and constructive communication.
How can a leader help turn individuals into a team?
By developing and communicating a vision, coordinating members’ efforts, and helping them act toward a shared goal.
Quiz questions
Which description best distinguishes leadership from management?Answer: Leadership influences people toward shared goals; management organizes work through formal processes.
How do people generally become managers, and what does leadership depend on?Answer: Managers are generally appointed; leadership depends on followers accepting a person’s influence.
Where do managers commonly derive power?Answer: From organizational authority attached to their position in the hierarchy.
Which source of influence may lead followers to accept a leader’s direction?Answer: The leader’s expertise, personal qualities, or relationship with followers.
Why do organizations benefit from both leadership and management?Answer: Leadership builds commitment and direction; management turns plans into organized work.
Based on Principles of Management by David S. Bright, Anastasia H. Cortes, Eva Hartmann, K. Praveen Parboteeah, Jon L. Pierce, Monique Reece, Amit Shah, Siri Terjesen, Joseph Weiss, Margaret A. White, Donald G. Gardner, Jason Lambert et al. (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.