Effect of path-goal leadership styles on the commitment of employees on construction projects

Effective leadership and employee commitment are two fundamental factors required for project success. A capable leader provides direction while a highly committed employee exerts more effort to pursue project goals. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of path-goal leadership styles on the commitment of employees on construction projects. Primary data were collected through the administration of a questionnaire to construction managers of completed projects within the last five years (20082013) before the study was conducted, while data obtained were presented using tables and analysed using correlation and multiple regression analysis. The study revealed that a supportive leadership style influences the affective commitment of employees; and continuing commitment of employees is influenced by supportive and achievement-oriented leadership styles. None of the path-goal leadership styles influence the normative commitment of the employee. The study therefore recommends that leaders of construction projects should prioritize the leadership style that influences the commitment of the employee. Leaders should also create a friendly and psychologically supportive environment for employees as well as understanding their behaviour in order to enhance their commitment.