Followers’ Perceptions of Positive Communication Practices in Leadership: What Matters and Surprisingly What Does Not

Abstract

Using the model of positive communication as a guiding framework, this study explored which specific prosocial behaviors best explained a relationship- or task-oriented leadership style. Examining data gathered from 359 participants working in various industries, regression analyses revealed that listening behaviors and inspirational actions were meaningful for both relationship- and task-oriented leaders; however, complimenting emerged as particularly salient for relationship-oriented leadership styles whereas asking was significant for task-oriented leadership styles. Interestingly, followers’ age, race-ethnicity, and gender did not impact their perceptions of leader’s positive communication practices. The implications of these findings for leadership training, particularly in an increasingly diverse workforce, are discussed.