Transformational leadership, job engagement, and championing behavior: assessing the mediating role of role clarity

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to examine how role clarity mediates the effect of transformational leadership on job engagement and championing behavior in support of the conservation of resources theory. Design/methodology/approach The authors used a cross-sectional approach to collect data from managerial/nonmanagerial employees within the Pakistani hospitality industry via online and offline questionnaires. A total of 170 responses were used in the data analysis using partial least squares structural equation modeling to test the hypothesized relationships. Findings Findings show that transformational leadership directly predicts improved role clarity and job engagement. Moreover, role clarity leads to job engagement and championing behavior. Role clarity exhibits a partial mediation effect on job engagement and full mediation on championing behavior. Originality/value To bridge the gap in leadership literature, this research assesses the underlying effect of role clarity on the relationship between transformational leadership and its positive outcomes. It provides theoretical and managerial implications regarding the role of transformational leadership characteristics and outcomes.

Mastering digital leadership capabilities for business model innovation: the role of managerial decision-making and grants

“…Relying on the dynamic capability theory, our findings contribute to the literature on digital leadership capability and business model innovation by providing additional evidence in the context of new ventures. We argue that digital leadership capabilities are essential to foster the business model innovation of new venture firms as a leader's role in guiding innovation, improving performance and in other essential areas of the business is highly integral (Majid et al ., 2023). Digital leaders can facilitate innovation in the digital realm where new ventures can expand faster than laggards.…”

“…Digitalization improves productivity and attracts new customers, but executives must have digital leadership skills to strengthen their company’s creative performance (Benitez et al ., 2022). As firms go through the digital world, leaders will be expected to direct innovation, performance and other critical business characteristics (Majid et al ., 2023). Digital leadership abilities also help firms innovate business models, giving them an edge in the market (Mihardjo et al ., 2019a, b).…”