The Influence of Empowering Leadership on Work Engagement: Mediating Role of Intrinsic Motivation and Moderating Role of Self-Efficacy

Abstract

This study examines the influence of empowering leadership on employees’ work engagement in today's complex corporate environment. It explores intrinsic motivation as a mediator between empowering leadership and work engagement incorporating self-determination theory, and the moderating role of self-efficacy in this relationship. Using a quantitative approach with 300 valid responses from 320 employees, the study found empowering leadership significantly influences work engagement through intrinsic motivation. Self-efficacy enhances the link between intrinsic motivation and work engagement, indicating a stronger impact for employees with higher self-belief. These findings contribute to the literature on leadership, motivation, self-efficacy, and work engagement, offering practical insights for organizations to foster employee engagement and well-being in Pakistan's context.