IMPACT OF LEADERSHIP STYLES ON ORGANIZATIONAL BEHAVIOR WITHIN THE HOSPITALITY SECTOR

Abstract

This research explores the effects of leadership styles on the behavior of employees in SMEs in Pakistan’s hospitality industry and identifies transformational leadership as the most effective model. The research involved qualitative analysis of semi structured interviews with leaders, managers, supervisors and employees and the study revealed 77 codes grouped into ten themes such as Motivational Strategies, Performance Management, Autonomy and Guidance, Change Management, Team Collaboration, Innovation and Creativity, and others. The findings show that the transformational leaders are characterized by the focus on the employee engagement, providing the clear direction, and creating the culture of development for the staff. These leaders are effective in monitoring performance through setting goals and providing incentives and they are also effective in implementing change through communication and provision of resources. Besides, they encourage decentralization and collaboration and provide a risk-free environment for experimentation and idea generation. The research evidence highlights the fact that the level of transformational leadership greatly improves the satisfaction with the job, organizational performance, and organizational flexibility, making it one of the most important factors for success in the hospitality industry. This extensive understanding offers specific suggestions to the managers who want to enhance performance and motivation in their organizations.