Effect of Transformational Leadership on Employee Engagement- An Empirical Study in Select Higher Educational Institutions

Abstract

The present knowledge-driven economy – coupled with market pressures, competitive work environment and advancement in technologies – is posing numerous challenges to organizations, in general, and higher educational institutions, in particular. In this regard, academic institutions need to become as centre of excellence with focus on enriching the developmental aspects of their employees both teaching and non teaching staff who contribute significantly towards institution building process. Academic heads need to involve and engage their workforce towards organizational growth by entrusting them with academic and administrative assignments and responsibilities. They need to be inspired and guided by leaders so that they can be more effective and result oriented. It calls for the role of transformational leaders to instil a sense of commitment and dedication amongst their followers. Keeping this in view, the present article is aimed to examine the effect of transformational leadership on employee engagement in some sample select institutions. It will also explore the relationship that exists between them. The findings of the study revealed that there exists a positive relationship between transformational leadership and employee engagement. It is also revealed from the results that employee engagement is positively influenced by transformational leadership. The findings of the study suggest that transformational leadership needs to be further enhanced in order to enrich employee engagement in the sample study institutions.

Keywords: Employee Engagement, Transformational Leadership, Academic and Non-Academic Staff, Higher Education

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