What motivates followers in transactional leadership?

• A. Intrinsic motivation
• B. Social motivation
• C. Collective motivation
• D. Extrinsic motivation

Answer: (D)

Transactional leadership motivates followers through external incentives. In this style, performance is driven by contingent rewards for meeting targets or compliance, and by penalties or corrective actions for underperformance. That external pull—bonuses, recognition, promotions, or the threat of punishment—defines the motivation, which is extrinsic rather than stemming from personal interest or internal satisfaction. This contrasts with intrinsic motivation, where someone engages in work because it is inherently interesting or rewarding to them, a force more aligned with other leadership approaches that aim to inspire and develop deeper commitment. Social or collective motivation isn’t the central mechanism in transactional leadership, since the focus is on individuals meeting specified standards and the transactional exchange with the leader rather than broader group belonging or shared purpose.