Transformational leadership and learning flows

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to examine how transformational leadership impacts learning flows that are critical for enhancing the learning capabilities of organizations. Design/methodology/approach Data were collected from 502 employees of business organizations located in India. A cross-sectional design was adopted, and partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used for data analysis. Findings Transformational leadership behavior positively influences feed-forward learning flows in organizations and strengthens their learning stock. Learning stock held by the individuals emerged as a predictor of feed-forward learning flows in organizations and a partial mediator of the relationship between transformational leadership and feed-forward learning flows. The study’s findings suggest transformational leadership encourages feed-forward learning flows through the development of individual learning stock. Originality/value This study empirically supports the theoretical claim of transformational leadership behaviors as an important antecedent to fostering organizational learning.