Transformational leadership and the work outcomes of Chinese migrant workers: The mediating effects of identification with leader

Qing Miao, Alexander Newman, Peter Lamb

Research output: Journal PublicationArticlepeer-review

50 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

This study examines the mediating influence of identification with leader on the relationship between follower perceptions of transformational leadership behavior and their work outcomes, using data obtained from migrant workers and their supervisors in a large manufacturing company located in south-eastern China. Hierarchical regression analysis revealed that transformational leadership was positively related to the affective commitment and job performance of followers, and negatively related to their turnover intentions. In contrast, no significant influence was found of transformational leadership on the innovative behavior of followers. Subsequent analysis revealed that identification with leader mediated the relationship between transformational leadership and follower attitudes, but did not mediate the relationship between transformational leadership and follower job performance. These findings highlight the importance of cultural and wider contextual influences on the processes by which leadership impacts on the work outcomes of migrant workers in the Chinese manufacturing industry. The managerial implications of these findings are discussed and suggestions for future research provided.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)377-395
Number of pages19
JournalLeadership
Volume8
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Nov 2012

Keywords

  • identification
  • innovative behavior
  • job performance
  • organizational commitment
  • transformational leadership
  • turnover intentions

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Sociology and Political Science
  • Strategy and Management

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