How Transparent Internal Communication From CEO, Supervisors, and Peers Leads to Employee Advocacy

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine the role of transparent internal communication from multiple communication entities within organizations—CEO, supervisors, and peers—in employees’ internal and external advocacy, respectively, with a consideration of the two mediators: employee-organization relationship (EOR) and employee empowerment. Results of an online survey with 403 full-time employees in the United States suggested that transparent communication from direct supervisors was positively related to employee advocacy via heightened EOR and empowerment. In addition, positive associations between CEOs’ transparent communication and employees’ external and internal advocacy via a favorable EOR were found, while transparent peer communication was positively related to employee advocacy through empowerment. Theoretical and practical implications for strategic internal communication are discussed.