Abstract:

Purpose- It is assumed that transformational leadership as an organizational context might have a significant effect on the development of individual creativity capabilities within followers. Further, it is argued that intrinsic motivation mediates the transformational leadership behavior - individual creativity link, which we empirically know little about so far. Methodology- Given hypothesis were investigated by using 304 questionnaires from 61 manufacturing companies operating in Eastern Marmara region. To more vigorously test the proposed model, partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was employed with SmartPLS 3.0 statistical program. Findings- The findings suggest that transformational leadership is an important tool that enhance individual creativity. The SEM results revealed that transformational leadership is positively associated with individual creativity and the effect of transformational leadership on individual creativity is partially mediated by inspirational motivation, which means both of our hypothesis are supported. Conclusion- According to the findings, transformational leaders provide their followers’ with recognition, provide a vision towards future; they act as role models and promote followers’ commitment. They encourage the followers to take risks, increase their energy to generate novel ideas and solutions. As a result, followers with increased self-confidence become more inspired motivated and creative. Additionally, these followers, through the way that their leaders behave them, are inspired and motivated to be more creative in doing their tasks. Partially through inspirational motivation transformational leaders can stimulate the creative capabilities of followers. Finally, this study reveals the fact that the effect of transformational leadership is partially mediated by inspirational mediation.

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