Leadership in the workplace
Take Home Messages:
As an employer it is important to evaluate and promote good leadership practices in work environments. Good leadership improves job well-being, and decreases sick leave and early retirement. It has a small effect on job satisfaction, and no effect of job performance.
Why the study matters:
Consequences of health inadequacies in the workplace are a major concern. Many countries face challenges of an aging workforce and shortage of labour supply.
An important factor between the workplace and health is supervisor leadership. It affects the productivity and effectiveness of an organization and the health and well-being of employees.
Leadership can be defined as:
- Considerative (supervision with consideration and truthfulness);
- Supportive (leader's social support and concern for colleagues); and
- Transformational (inspiration, motivation, intellectual stimulation).
What the study involved:
The researchers looked at various studies on the association between leadership and employee well-being and health. A total of 27 studies were analysed.
The researchers analysed the effect of leadership on:
- Job satisfaction;
- Job well-being;
- Job performance;
- Sick leave; and
- Early retirement.
Summary of study findings:
The researchers demonstrated that good leadership was associated with:
- Increased well being at work;
- Decreased risk of sickness absence; and
- Decreased risk of disability pension.
There was a small link between leadership and job satisfaction, but the evidence was not strong. No link was found between leadership and job performance.
Original research:
Leadership, Job Well-Being, and Health Effects – A Systematic Review and a Meta-Analysis
Kuoppala J, Lamminpää A, Liira J, Vainio H.
J Occup Environ Med. 2008 Aug;50(8):904-15