What leadership factor involves closely monitoring followers to correct mistakes and rule violations?

Active management-by-exception is a leadership factor that revolves around a leader being actively involved in monitoring the behaviors and performance of their followers. It emphasizes vigilance and the willingness to intervene when mistakes occur or when rules and standards are not met. Leaders who employ this approach take corrective actions immediately. They are not only aware of their subordinates' performance but also proactively address deviations from expected behavior, ensuring that standards are upheld.

This approach contrasts with other leadership styles, such as passive management-by-exception, which involves a more hands-off attitude where the leader only steps in when issues become severe or when errors have already caused significant problems. Transformational leadership focuses on inspiring and motivating followers to achieve higher levels of performance and personal development through vision and relational dynamics rather than enforcing compliance through close monitoring. Transactional leadership incorporates elements of both active and passive approaches, but it primarily revolves around exchanges and rewards based on performance rather than on direct oversight of daily activities.

In summary, active management-by-exception highlights a leader's proactive engagement with followers to ensure standards are maintained, making it the correct choice in this context.