A study on the leadership behavior and leadership effectiveness of

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between leadership behaviour and leadership effectiveness. Second, it endeavours to determine if the gender of a manager moderates the relationship between leadership behaviour and perception of leadership effectiveness. A survey method was employed and the data was drawn from subordinates who were working in private and public sectors in the Klang Valley area. Out of the 400 questionnaires that were distributed, only 269 questionnaires were collected. Almost an equal percentage of the genders of the superiors were 55.8% male and 44.2% female. The study illuminated that Nurturant Task-Participative is recognized by Malaysians as the best leadership practice in the Malaysian context. On the other hand, the result also indicated that there was no relationship between autocratic leadership and effectiveness. Autocratic indeed is perceived as part and parcel of the Malaysian cultural system. Nevertheless, it is anticipated that there will be a transformation of leadership in future where autocratic leadership behaviour no longer attributes to effectiveness. Gender equality was found in this study whereby Malaysians had set aside gender stereotypes and acknowledged the capability of women in management and leadership. This study provides some implications on the Malaysian preference style of leadership in relation to the manager. Besides, organizations should have a more transparent policy in accepting both men and women into management. Limitations and recommendation is discussed so that future research can take it into consideration.