Impact of Leadership Styles on Employee Adaptability During Digital Transformation: Change Management Practices and Organizational Support as Moderators
Authors
Assistant Professor & Research Advisor, Department of Commerce Computer Applications, St. Joseph’s College (Autonomous), Affiliated to Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu (India)
Full-Time Research Scholar, Department of Commerce, St. Joseph’s College (Autonomous), Affiliated to Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu (India)
Article Information
DOI: 10.51584/IJRIAS.2025.10100000157
Subject Category: Digital Transformation
Volume/Issue: 10/10 | Page No: 1786-1794
Publication Timeline
Submitted: 2025-11-03
Accepted: 2025-11-10
Published: 2025-11-18
Abstract
The rapid pace of digital transformation has redefined organizational structures, processes, and work cultures, making leadership a critical driver of adaptability among employees. This study investigates the impact of leadership styles on employee adaptability during digital transformation, with a specific focus on the moderating role of change management practices and organizational support. Drawing responses from 426 employees working in IT companies, the study adopts a quantitative research design using structured questionnaires and statistical analysis. The findings reveal that transformational and participative leadership styles significantly enhance employee adaptability, while transactional leadership shows mixed effects. Moreover, effective change management practices and strong organizational support systems (including training, communication, and resource allocation) act as positive moderators, reducing resistance and fostering adaptability. The study highlights the importance of leaders adopting flexible, empathetic, and future-oriented approaches to successfully navigate digital transitions. The implications of the research extend to HR practitioners, policymakers, and corporate leaders in designing leadership development and change management programs to sustain competitiveness in the digital era.
Keywords
Leadership Styles, Employee Adaptability, Digital Transformation, Change Management, Organizational Support, IT Companies
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