Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Organizational Leadership Practice Test

What is task structure directly related to in a leadership context?

1. The variability of job tasks

2. The extent of job repetitiveness

3. The leader's ability to motivate

4. The level of follower autonomy

The correct answer is: The extent of job repetitiveness

In the context of leadership, task structure refers to how predefined and organized a job's tasks are. A highly structured task means that duties are clear, specific, and often repetitive, allowing team members to understand their roles and responsibilities without ambiguity. This clarity can lead to efficiency as employees are not left to figure out what to do next. The extent of job repetitiveness is directly tied to task structure, as a more defined and structured task would likely include repetitive elements, providing consistency in job performance. This structured environment can help leaders manage their teams more effectively, as they can more easily assess performance, provide feedback, and implement improvements. In contrast, concepts such as the variability of job tasks and follower autonomy are more related to the flexibility and adaptability of roles, which don't directly define the structure of tasks as clearly as repetitiveness does. The leader's ability to motivate, while crucial, focuses more on interpersonal skills rather than the nature of the job tasks themselves. Understanding task structure is essential for leaders in delegating responsibilities and ensuring that team members can perform their jobs effectively.