What is task behavior in a leadership context?

In the context of leadership, task behavior refers to the actions taken by a leader to clearly define the duties and responsibilities of individuals or groups within a team. This involves outlining specific roles, setting objectives, and establishing expectations, which are essential for ensuring that team members understand what is required of them to achieve common goals. By providing clarity in these areas, a leader enhances efficiency and effectiveness within the team.

When leaders engage in task behavior, they help to facilitate organized workflow and better performance because team members know exactly what is expected of them, which minimizes confusion and fosters accountability. This contrasts with other aspects of leadership, such as relationship-oriented behaviors, which focus more on interpersonal dynamics and personal development within the team.