2017•International Journal of Business AdministrationOpen access

A Comparison of Leadership Theories in an Organizational Environment

Robert Cote

Abstract

This analysis will review three leadership theories focusing on how leader’s influence and motivate employees to accomplish tasks and goal achievement in an organizational environment. The three theories chosen are: (1) Situational Leadership Theory, (2) Path-Goal Leadership Theory, and (3) Leader-Member (LMX) Theory. In each leadership theory, background information, development and effectiveness, and strengths and weaknesses will be analyzed. Also, each leadership theory will be compared and contrasted according to similarities and differences. After each of these theories of leadership is reviewed, the last section will discuss Transformational Leadership, which has become an emerging leadership theory because it inspires, motivates, and energizes employees.

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Key concepts: Transformational leadership, Situational leadership theory, Leadership theory, Transactional leadership, Leadership studies, Shared leadership, Servant leadership, Leadership