Exploring the influence of line managers’ generic skills on subordinates’ performance at a higher education institution in South Africa

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the influence of line managers' generic skills on subordinates' performance at a higher education institution in South Africa. The research investigated the relationship between the skills possessed by line managers and their subordinates' performance, and whether there was a significant correlation between these two variables. The research utilized a qualitative approach involving in-depth interviews and observations to collect data from both line managers and their subordinates. The findings of this study provided valuable insights into the role of generic skills in line managers and their impact on subordinates' performance in a higher education setting. Employee performance is crucial for organizations seeking to maintain competitiveness and achieve long-term success. While various factors contributed to employee performance, one area that gained significant attention in recent years was the influence of generic skills, also known as soft skills or transferable skills, on employee productivity. Generic skills encompass various non-technical competencies such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, adaptability, and time management. This study aimed to synthesize existing research on how generic skills influenced employee productivity, providing insights into how these skills impacted organizational outcomes.