Enhancing Employee Performance Through E-Leadership: A Mediation Analysis of Motivation and Trust

Employee performance is a critical factor in determining the success of a company. However, many organizations experience a decline in performance during times of crisis. In situations where physical interaction is limited, one effective approach to enhancing employee performance is through the implementation of e-leadership. This study aims to explore the influence of e-leadership on employee performance, with a specific focus on the mediating roles of motivation and trust. The research was conducted among 128 production employees at PT. Asia Pacific Fibers, Kendal, Central Java, Indonesia. Data were collected using a questionnaire, supported by interviews and documentation. The data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The results of this study provide empirical evidence that e-leadership is a significant predictor of employee performance, both directly and indirectly through motivation and trust. These findings contribute to a more nuanced understanding of digital leadership dynamics, particularly in the post-pandemic era where virtual collaboration has become more prevalent.