EXPLORING THE LEADERSHIP AND WORK BEHAVIOR NEXUS THROUGH MEDIATION AND MODERATION MECHANISMS IN THE HOSPITALITY SECTOR OF PAKISTAN

This study examined how leadership styles affect psychological empowerment and, in turn, proactive work behavior among hotel staff. It also examined whether organizational culture affected psychological empowerment. This study surveyed 285 managerial employees at Pearl-Continental Hotel and Resort in Pakistan. The findings suggest that inclusive leadership (ILS) fosters belonging and psychological authority, encouraging employees to take initiative and engage in proactive behaviors. Empowered leadership (EPL) and spiritual leadership (SPL) create an environment where employees feel trusted and responsible for their tasks, improving their innate motivation to act proactively. Psychological empowerment (PSE) serves as a critical mechanism through which inclusive leadership (ILS) influences proactive work behavior (PWB). The findings suggest that organizational culture plays a crucial role in determining how effectively ILS fosters PWB. Empowered leadership can foster employees' positive perceptions of psychological empowerment, which in turn supports employee responsibility and organizational operations. To the authors’ best knowledge, this research represents an early effort to develop a thorough understanding of diverse leadership styles in the hotel industry. This research outlines extensive theoretical discussions and empirical investigations. Keywords: Inclusive leadership, organizational culture, empowering leadership, spiritual leadership, psychological empowerment, proactive work behavior