LEADERSHIP STYLES AND ORGANIZATIONAL CLIMATE AFFECTING THE EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT

Abstract

Purpose - This study aims to investigate the influence of leadership styles on employee engagement and the influence of organizational climate on employee engagement. The study was conducted as a case study of employees in an electrical appliance company located in the Bangchan Industrial Estate.

Design/Methodology/Approach - This study employed a quantitative research methodology, collecting data from a sample of 364 participants through questionnaires distributed via Google Forms. The statistical tools used for data analysis included frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, and multiple regression analysis, with the level of statistical significance set at .05.

Findings - Most respondents were female, aged 30-40 years, with a high school/vocational education, a monthly income of 10,001-20,000 baht, and less than 10 years of tenure. The results indicate that leadership personality traits-openness to experience (β = 0.32) and emotional stability (β = 0.21)-significantly influence employee engagement at the .05 level. Furthermore, organizational climate factors, including unity (β = 0.52), acceptance (β = 0.21), and performance standards (β = 0.15), were also found to significantly affect employee engagement at the .05 level.

Research limitations - This study was limited to employees of an electrical appliance company located in the Bangchan Industrial Estate. Future research may extend to other industries with different employees, environments, and organizational climates.

Managerial implications - For executives in the electrical appliance industry, the findings of this study should be applied in the selection and appointment of leaders whose personality traits are appropriate for supervisory positions. Moreover, policies or activities should be developed to foster a positive organizational climate, thereby enhancing employee engagement and reducing the employee turnover rate within the organization.

Originality/value - This study contributes to the body of knowledge in organizational human resource policy planning by providing practical information that can be applied in real settings. It offers new insights and understanding regarding employee engagement, thereby benefiting the electrical appliance industry in Thailand.