What term refers to factors that limit a leader's ability to influence employee performance?

The term that refers to factors limiting a leader's ability to influence employee performance is "substitutes for leadership." This concept highlights conditions or factors in the organization or work environment that diminish or negate the direct influence of a leader on their employees. These substitutes can include factors such as the nature of the work itself, the presence of strong organizational culture, peer support, and intrinsic motivation among employees. When such substitutes are present, they can make a leader's role less critical in driving performance and motivation, as employees might rely more on these external factors than on the leader's directives.

This underscores the importance of understanding the relationship between leadership and employee behavior within the context of the work environment and organizational structure, emphasizing that leadership is not the sole determinant of performance.