Abstract
Orientation: In a business context characterised by precariousness and uncertainty, the importance of trusting leader-follower relationships is becoming critical to navigate imminent challenges preventing organisational sustainability and progress. The potential negative impact of related challenges could be reduced by encouraging leaders to adopt an authentic leadership style, culminating in various positive employee and organisational outcomes.Research purpose: This study investigated the impact of authentic leadership (AL) on follower trust in the leader (TL), while considering the possible indirect influence of perceived precariousness in the form of job insecurity.Motivation for the study: Establishing a high level of trust among the followers and their leaders employed by a manufacturing organisation under operational and financial pressure might contribute to a more effective functioning of the entity.Research approach/design and method: A quantitative cross-sectional survey design was applied. The Authentic Leadership Inventory, Workplace Trust Survey, and Job Insecurity Scale were administered.Main findings: Authentic leadership was a significant predictor of TL. Job insecurity did not moderate the relationship between AL and TL.Practical/managerial implications: Promoting an AL style will benefit manufacturing organisations as it will elevate the trustful relationship between leaders and followers, despite precarious working conditions.Contribution/value-add: The study emphasises AL’s critical role in cultivating a trustful relationship between followers and their leaders. The non-significant influence of job insecurity on a trustful relationship in a precarious work context was also highlighted.
Highlights
The global economy has been affected by numerous economic crises over the past few decades, and this had had a negative influence on the world of work (Wang et al, 2021)
This study aimed to investigate the relationship between authentic leadership (AL) and trust in the leader (TL) within a precarious business context in South Africa
Model 1 was constructed in line with what theory proposes: AL, TL and job insecurity
Summary
The global economy has been affected by numerous economic crises over the past few decades, and this had had a negative influence on the world of work (Wang et al, 2021). The survival, advancement and competitiveness of organisations in the turbulent labour market depend on an organisation’s ability to effectively manage the challenges brought about by change, both in the internal and external environment (Sartori & Rolandi, 2013). The South African economy has been affected by challenges, one of which is the effects of the 2008 global financial crisis and subsequent weak growth. Keim, Landis, Pierce, and Earnest (2014) stated that job insecurity as an element of precariousness is often one of the stressors that is synonymous with organisational change.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
