Which managerial approach describes a manager defining role expectations to an employee?

The correct answer focuses on the concept of role taking. This managerial approach involves a manager defining specific expectations and responsibilities for an employee, allowing the employee to understand their role within the organization. This relationship is crucial for effective performance because it clarifies what is expected and how the employee can contribute to the team's objectives.

In the context of role taking, it is about the manager's ability to communicate and set clear parameters for an employee's duties, helping to guide their actions and decisions within their role. By establishing these expectations, the manager is facilitating a smoother integration of the employee into the team and ensuring that both parties are aligned on goals and responsibilities.

In contrast, role making would imply a more collaborative relationship in which employees are encouraged to contribute to shaping their own roles, not merely following out an outlined set of expectations. Empowerment involves giving employees the authority and autonomy to make decisions, which differs from the directive nature of role taking. Task delegation, while related, focuses more on assigning specific tasks to employees without necessarily outlining their entire role or expectations within the broader context of their job.