The effect of transformational, transactional and authentic leadership on innovation: the mediating role of organizational culture

Abstract

PurposeThis study aims to investigate the effects of different leadership styles, transformational, transactional and authentic leadership, on travel agents’ innovational behavior, with organizational culture as a mediator.Design/methodology/approachThe study aim was achieved by using an integrative model using LISREL 8.80. Quantitative research was used using a questionnaire. A convenient sampling technique was used to select the sample. A total of 500 questionnaires were distributed to travel agents, out of which 415 were returned, and 376 usable ones were statistically handled (75.2% response rate).FindingsTransformational leadership has a significant impact on organizational culture (ß = 0.34) and innovational behavior (ß = 0.46). Authentic leadership has a significant impact on both organizational culture (ß = 0.38) and innovational behavior (ß = 0.52). Transactional leadership significantly impacts organizational culture (ß = 0.38); however, it has no significant impact on innovational behavior (ß = 0.31). The positive influence of leadership styles on innovative behavior is mediated by innovative organizational culture (ß = 0.92).Research limitations/implicationsFurther research should explore the relationship between other leadership styles and innovation. Additionally, investigates the relationship between organizational culture factors and innovation. This study targeted category “A” travel agencies. Therefore, to generalize the study findings, the study should be replicated with other categories of travel agencies.Practical implicationsTravel agencies organizations should invest in managers who adopt authentic and transformational leadership, whereas transactional leaders are urged to be open to new ideas, invest in the knowledge and skills of their employees, encourage friendly communication with their employees and ensure that there are reasonable punishment and reward systems within the organization.Originality/valueThis study presents new insights into tourism field by integrating the study variables (organizational culture, innovative behavior and leadership style), into one framework, particularly in developing countries’ contexts.