Task Oriented

A task-oriented leader is someone whose top priority is getting tasks done to reach defined goals or targets by the specified deadline. Their focus is on the results, performance, and productivity of the individuals, team, or department they’re leading.

A task-oriented leader is likely to review a day’s work through the prism of tasks.

• Was everything on the to-do list completed? If so, they likely deem the day a success. Checking off tasks from the to-do list matters most.”

Their strength is setting goals, creating an organized, step-by-step action plan, and then seeing it through to completion as planned. They clearly define the roles and responsibilities of those who work for them and delegate work based on the individual’s strengths and capabilities. Also, to prevent mistakes and delays that would compromise their ability to complete their tasks and achieve their goals, they frequently communicate with employees, offer constructive feedback, and implement processes that ensure any work completed meets their standards.

While this leadership style ensures that work gets done and motivates certain types of individuals, it can also cause stress, stifle creativity, negatively impact team culture, lead to demotivation, impede work-life balance, and increase turnover. As such, those leading people should not entirely rely on task-oriented leadership and instead, should incorporate aspects of people-oriented leadership into their approach.