The Effect of Leadership Styles on Employee Performance in the Nigerian Leasing Industry

This study investigates the effect of leadership styles on employee performance within the Nigerian leasing industry. To gain a well-rounded perspective on the relationship between leadership styles and employee performance within the Nigerian leasing industry, this research employed a mixed-methods approach. This approach combined quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. Quantitative data was gathered through surveys administered to 217 employees. These surveys provided valuable insights into the prevalence of specific leadership styles and their perceived impact on performance. Qualitative data was collected through in-depth interviews with 80 employees. These interviews allowed for a deeper understanding of employee experiences and perceptions. Additionally, focus group discussions were conducted with 40 participants. These discussions fostered a collaborative environment where employees could share their perspectives and experiences in a more open-ended manner. By combining these various data collection methods, the research was able to paint a more complete picture of the influence of leadership styles on employee performance within the Nigerian leasing industry. The findings of this research revealed that transformational leadership emerges as the most effective style for boosting employee performance. Leaders who cultivate a supportive and visionary work environment through transformational leadership practices motivate employees and contribute to improvements across all performance metrics, including productivity, quality of work, goal attainment, and employee engagement. Interestingly, clear and consistent communication from leaders stands out as a crucial factor in enhancing performance, regardless of the specific leadership style being employed. The study also identifies the need for further exploration regarding the impact of specific leadership traits, such as team building, on employee performance. These findings hold significant implications for the Nigerian leasing industry. Prioritizing leadership development programs that emphasize transformational leadership and effective communication skills becomes crucial for organizations seeking to optimize employee performance. Furthermore, the research paves the way for future studies to explore the influence of additional factors, such as organizational culture and employee attitudes, on performance within the Nigerian leasing industry. Overall, the research depicts how leadership styles significantly influence employee performance within the Nigerian leasing industry, impacting factors like governance, growth, and the ability to navigate the industry’s uncertainties.