Employee motivation mediating servant leadership and work outcomes in China's higher education

Abstract

This study investigates the interrelationships among leadership styles, employee motivation, job satisfaction, and organizational commitment across twelve private higher education institutions located in Guangxi Province, China. The research aims to identify how leadership directly affects these indicators and influences them through the mediation of employee motivation. Incorporating Confucian values, this investigation contextualizes leadership dynamics in China’s private university sector. This study used quantitative methods and collected data from academic and administrative personnel at twelve private higher education institutions through online surveys. The survey tool includes a tested scale to measure leadership ability, employee motivation, job satisfaction, and organizational commitment, which is based on Likert 7-point scale. To analyse data and evaluate direct and mediating effects, it is recommended to use structural equation modelling (SEM). This research advances theoretical comprehension of leadership dynamics by examining the interplay among leadership practices, employee motivation, and work outcomes, while elucidating their cultural significance within higher education settings. Practical experience and lessons learned may help develop leadership plans that focus on employee growth and well-being. This study also aims to provide ideas for future work on leadership in specific cultural contexts.