The mediating effect of leader-member exchange between strengths use and work engagement

Abstract

This study investigated the mediating effect of leader-member exchange (LMX) (as perceived by subordinates) in the relationship between strengths use and work engagement. Participants numbered 213 employees in a South African financial organisation (females=53.10%, blacks=19.40%). Data on their perceptions of LMX, strengths use and work engagement were collected with the LMX-7, SUDIQ and UWES-17. Structural equation modelling methods with bootstrapping were used to determine the role of LMX in the relationship between strengths use and work engagement. Findings showed that perceived organisational support for strengths use (POSSU) had a positive relationship with both LMX and work engagement, and that LMX had a positive relationship with work engagement. Furthermore, LMX mediated the relationship between POSSU and work engagement, indicating the important role of high quality leader- member exchange in organisations.