The Influence of Transformational Leadership Exhibited by Organizational Leaders on Organizational Commitment: Focusing on the Mediating Effect of Knowledge Management Activities

This empirical study analyzed the influence of transformational leadership on knowledge management activities and organizational commitment, and examined the mediating effect of knowledge management in the relationship between transformational leadership and organizational commitment. A survey was employed as the research method. The survey targeted 635 participants working in the service, manufacturing, and IT industries. The results were used to compare and analyze the relationships among industry-specific variables. Transformational leadership is defined as the tendency to strive for change and innovation despite the achievement of objectives, develop the potential capabilities and strengths that each member of the organization possesses, amplify their self-esteem and passion, and lead them to surpass their expected objectives by stimulating positive strengths. Such type of leadership has been perceived as a precedent that enhances organizational effectiveness. In summary, this study has yielded the following results: First, the transformational leadership exhibited by organizational leaders was found to have a significant positive impact on knowledge management activities as well as organizational commitment. Second, knowledge management activities were found to have a significant positive influence on organizational commitment. Third, the transformational leadership exhibited by organizational leaders was found to have a partial mediating effect on the mediating role of knowledge management activities in the relationship with organizational commitment. Fourth, analyzing industry-wise, the influence of transformational leadership on knowledge management activities was the most significant in the service industry, which was also the case for the influence of knowledge management activities on organizational commitment. The influence of leaders’ transformational leadership on organizational commitment was the most significant in the information technology industry. Finally, based on the aforementioned research results, suggestions were made regarding the meaning of the influence of transformational leadership on knowledge management activities and organizational commitment and the differences by industry thereof, while also suggesting the limitations of this work.