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Leadership and communication strategies for managing organisational change: insights from eThekwini automobile dealerships

Author

Listed:
  • Nonye Chukwuma

    (Durban University of Technology)

  • Robert-Walter Dumisani Zondo

    (Faculty of Management Sciences, Durban University of Technology, South Africa.)

Abstract

Research studies have proven that leadership styles and communication are positively and significantly related to effective change management. This implies that the influence of leadership on effective communication is integral to the success of any organizational performance. These leadership styles include transformational and transactional leadership. The study was based on two different theories; the leadership theory and the communication theory. The study was descriptive in nature considering a sample size of 300 employees in the selected dealership organisations operating in the eThekwini, South-Africa. Data collection was achieved by handing out questionnaires to 300 employees, out of which 170 were returned completed. The study was analysed by means of correlational and regression analysis ascertained through the structural equation model (SEM). The study found that leadership styles and communication were positively and significantly related and are major determinant to the success of an effective organisational change management. The study further concluded that leadership styles and communication were positively and significantly related to effective change. Conclusively, it was indicated that the transformational leadership style stands out as the most effective leadership style for successful change management. It was also agreed that integrated communications which involves the application of more than one communication strategy to pass important information especially regarding change management was vital. The study recommended the adoption of transformational leadership style in the various departments of the organization. Also, it considers the application of integrated communication which includes verbal, non-verbal, written, assertive and electronic means of communication.

Suggested Citation

  • Nonye Chukwuma & Robert-Walter Dumisani Zondo, 2024. "Leadership and communication strategies for managing organisational change: insights from eThekwini automobile dealerships," International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy (2687-2293), Bussecon International Academy, vol. 6(4), pages 159-177, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:adi:ijbess:v:6:y:2024:i:4:p:159-177
    DOI: 10.36096/ijbes.v6i4.546
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    References listed on IDEAS

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