A Comparative Study of the Impact of Different Leadership Styles on Organizational Performance: A Case of Infratel Zambia

Abstract

This study focused on the comparative analysis of different leadership styles at Infratel Zambia. The study adopted a case study approach, collecting data from 74 randomly sampled participants out of a total population of 90 employees at Infratel Zambia. Employing a mixed-method approach, qualitative data underwent thematic analysis, while quantitative data was analysed using STATA (Version 14) with Microsoft Excel for generating descriptive statistics and tabulation tables. Data collection instruments included questionnaires for employees and interview guides for managers. This research aimed to explore the optimal leadership approach and style for maximizing organizational results in the Zambian setting, using Infratel Zambia as a case study. Relying on primary data from detailed interviews, questionnaire surveys, and a review of literature, the study uncovered a significant correlation between different leadership styles and organizational performance at Infratel Zambia. The findings emphasized the necessity for organizations to employ a mix of leadership styles rather than relying on a single approach to achieve robust performance. The study concluded that there was a significant link between different leadership styles on Infratel’s organisational performance. The general argument of this study revealed that an organization needed to consider a mixture of different leadership styles to achieve robust organisational performance, unlike the application of a single style of leadership. However, the study results would be added to the body of knowledge already available on the effectiveness of leadership and provide insight into real-world applications for improving organisational performance in related fields and situations. Finally, it is recommended to adopt a combination of leadership styles for optimal organizational performance. Key Words: Leadership Styles, Organisational Performance.