According to the Path-Goal Theory of Leadership, empirically tested by this study in the hospitality industry in Aracaju-SE, there are four types of leader behavior (directive, supportive, achievement-oriented and participative) and two types of contingent factors (subordinate and environmental attributes). Our objectives were to identify the preferred leadership style among employees, describe how the subordinates characteristics (variables locus of control, perceived self-efficacy, authoritarianism, need for structure) take part, and associate these attributes to the leadership style mainly selected. All staff (30 people) participated in the survey. Results showed that there was significant preference for supportive leadership. Par...