People Matter

Every individual matters, every individual has a role, and every individual makes a difference. – Jane Goodall

An important literature review was recently conducted that looked at studies linking leadership and employee well-being. It was published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.  The study reviewed men and women from many countries. The studies looked at leadership style and employee well-being.

The dimensions of leadership style that were focused on were consideration and support. Guess what they found? Not all leaders are considerate, treating employees kindly and fairly. They also found that not all leaders are supportive, treating employees with concern and encouragement. Wow, there’ s a shocker!

The dimensions of employee well-being were job satisfaction, amount of sick leave taken, and job well-being (anxiety, depression, burnout, lower engagement).

One aspect though was not considered. The impact of leadership style on productivity. However, there is sufficient evidence to support that leadership style does in fact affect employee productivity. Well, back on topic. Leadership style affecting employee well-being. Let’s see, as an employee when your boss is considerate and supportive, do you feel better?

I suppose leadership at one time meant muscles, but today it means getting along with people.—Gandhi

How are you getting along with your people? And what impact is it making on your organization?