Geoffrey Zeigler BUSA 3910 Week 8 Homework The path-goal approach can be used in a virtual team by using, instrumental, supportive, participative and achievement leadership styles within the organization. A leader can assess characteristics of subordinates by observing and analyzing factors such as, behavior, focus, control, and attitudes. Leaders can assess task characteristics by judging the importance level, benefits, relationship of tasks and goals and many more. A leader can better learn about any over looming obstacles by communicating with subordinates individually, assessing risks, and ensuring accessibility of the task at hand. In virtual teams where coordinating work and communication is challenging, members can experience confusion about their roles and means to accomplish their tasks. Therefore, leaders should clarify each member's responsibility by sending out individual emails and providing guidance that is relevant to each member's situation at hand. Personalized task advice and guidance not only guides individual’s completion of their tasks but also enhances members respect for their leader’s professional knowledge and skills (Liao, 2017). Leaders' should focus on assessing task-oriented behaviors directed at individuals to enhance members' motivation to exert greater efforts in work-oriented activities (Liao, 2017). Leaders in virtual teams may virtually chat, direct message, or talk on the phone with fellow subordinates to better understand everyone’s individual needs. Depending on the workspace environment, leaders can assist members in setting personal goals and identifying processes and procedures in order to efficiently coordinate tasks. Works Cited: Liao, Chenwei. (2017). Leadership in virtual teams: A multilevel perspective. Human Resource Management Review. 27. 10.1016/j.hrmr.2016.12.010.
