How leader interactional transparency can impact follower psychological safety and role engagement

Summary

Gretchen R. Vogelgesang's 2008 paper, "How leader interactional transparency can impact follower psychological safety and role engagement," explores the critical role of leader transparency in shaping follower outcomes within an organizational context. The study defines "leader-driven interactional transparency" as a leader's willingness to share relevant information, be open to both giving and receiving feedback, be forthcoming about motives and decision-making rationale, and demonstrate consistency between their words and actions with their followers. The central aim of the research was to define the relationship between interactional transparency, psychological safety, and follower engagement, positing interactional transparency as a catalyst for these dynamics. The methodology involved examining how leaders cultivate interactional transparency and its subsequent effects on follower role engagement and participation in decision-making. The research found that psychological safety acts as a crucial mediating construct in this process. Through this mediation, followers were more likely to exhibit increased engagement with their organizational roles, develop greater trust in their leaders, and experience higher job satisfaction. Furthermore, the study identified that leader positive affect moderated the relationship between leader-driven interactional transparency and psychological safety. Psychological safety, in this context, refers to a condition where followers feel secure enough to share ideas, criticisms, questions, and opinions without fear of negative repercussions. These observed relationships were found to exist both concurrently and to strengthen when analyzed over time. The implications of this research are significant for leadership development and organizational effectiveness. By highlighting the pathways through which transparent leadership influences follower well-being and engagement, the study offers valuable insights for fostering a more trusting and productive work environment. Leaders who actively practice interactional transparency can create a psychologically safe space where employees feel comfortable contributing their full selves, leading to improved role engagement, enhanced trust in leadership, and ultimately, greater job satisfaction. The moderating role of positive affect further suggests that a leader's emotional demeanor can amplify the positive effects of transparency on psychological safety.