CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
The success and growth of any organization largely depend on the effectiveness of its workforce. Among the key factors influencing workforce productivity is leadership. Leadership is a central component in managing people and resources, and it is through leadership that managers guide their subordinates towards the achievement of organizational goals. In particular, the leadership style adopted by managers has a significant impact on employee morale, motivation, and performance.
Secretaries, as essential administrative support staff, play a crucial role in the day-to-day functioning of any institution. Their performance directly affects the efficiency and effectiveness of office operations. However, despite the vital nature of their role, secretaries are often undervalued, and their productivity is influenced by the management style they are subjected to.
In academic and research institutions like the Nigerian Institute of Leather and Science Technology (NILEST), Samaru, Zaria, the role of secretaries is particularly pivotal. They manage communication, coordinate administrative activities, and serve as the backbone of information dissemination. Yet, how managerial leadership styles affect their performance has not been adequately explored.
This study, therefore, seeks to assess the effect of managers’ leadership styles on the performance of secretaries at NILEST. By examining different leadership approaches and their outcomes on staff efficiency, this study aims to provide insights that will help improve organizational performance through better leadership practices.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Despite the recognition of the role of leadership in organizational performance, many organizations still suffer from ineffective leadership practices. Secretaries at NILEST often face challenges related to inadequate motivation, poor communication with management, and lack of recognition, all of which may be linked to the leadership style of their managers.
There is a noticeable gap between the expected and actual performance of secretaries, which could be a result of poor leadership. The absence of supportive, participative, or transformational leadership styles may contribute to job dissatisfaction, reduced commitment, and lower productivity. Understanding the nature of this problem and how it affects the output of secretaries is crucial for institutional growth and efficiency.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of this study is to assess the effect of managers’ leadership style on the performance of secretaries at the Nigerian Institute of Leather and Science Technology, Samaru, Zaria.
The specific objectives are to:
I.Identify the predominant leadership styles used by managers at NILEST.
II.Examine the relationship between leadership style and the performance of secretaries.
III.Determine the perception of secretaries regarding the leadership style of their managers.
IV.Recommend appropriate leadership practices that can enhance secretarial performance.
1.4 Research Questions
The study aims to answer the following questions:
?What are the common leadership styles adopted by managers at NILEST?
?How do these leadership styles affect the performance of secretaries?
?What are the secretaries' perceptions of their managers’ leadership styles?
?What leadership approaches can improve the performance of secretaries?
1.5 Research Hypotheses
The following hypotheses will be tested in the study:
H??: There is no significant relationship between leadership style and secretaries' performance.
H??: There is a significant relationship between leadership style and secretaries' performance.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study is significant in several ways:
?It will help organizational leaders understand the impact of their leadership style on staff productivity.
?It provides practical recommendations that can enhance the performance and motivation of secretaries.
?It contributes to existing literature on leadership and human resource management, especially within research institutes in Nigeria.
?It informs policy decisions and managerial training programs aimed at improving institutional efficiency.
1.7 Scope of the Study
This study focuses on the Nigerian Institute of Leather and Science Technology (NILEST), Samaru, Zaria. It examines the leadership styles of managers and how they influence the performance of secretaries within the institution. The study covers only selected departments where secretaries are actively employed.
1.8 Definition of Terms
Leadership Style: A leader’s characteristic manner of directing, motivating, guiding, and managing groups of people.
Secretary: An office employee responsible for administrative and clerical duties such as documentation, correspondence, and communication.
Performance: The degree to which an employee fulfills their job responsibilities effectively and efficiently.
Manager: An individual in charge of planning, directing, and overseeing the operations and employees of a department or organization.
