Which of the following best defines the role of transactional leaders?

The role of transactional leaders is best defined by their focus on supervision. Transactional leadership is grounded in a clear structure and established process, wherein leaders provide rewards or punishments based on performance. This approach emphasizes maintaining the status quo and ensuring that day-to-day operations are carried out efficiently. Leaders in this model focus on tasks, organization, and compliance with established rules and procedures.

Transactional leaders typically use structured policies to manage their teams and ensure that everyone is following the procedures in place. This approach can be effective in environments that require a high degree of control and consistency, often seen in bureaucratic or highly regulated contexts. By prioritizing supervision, transactional leaders ensure that team members adhere to standards and achieve expected outcomes, which is essential for operational effectiveness.

In contrast, other options involve aspects of leadership that are characteristic of different leadership styles. Motivating change workers aligns more with transformational leadership, which focuses on inspiring and motivating teams to exceed expectations. Encouraging innovation and challenging existing norms are also traits associated with transformational or adaptive leadership, which seek to foster creativity and respond to shifts in their environment.