Leadership skills and Employees Performance in Higher Institution of Learning: A case study of Kyambogo University

Abstract

The study focused on establishing the relationship between leadership skills and employee performance in higher institutions of learning, a case of Kyambogo University. It covered 5 years starting from 2013—2017. The study was guided by the following objectives: To establish the effect of conflict resolution skills on employee performance at KYU; To determine how communication skills influence employee performance at KYU; and, to explore the relationship between motivation skills and employee performance at KYU. A cross-sectional design was employed using both qualitative and quantitative approaches in order to collect detailed data. Both simple random sampling and Purposive Sampling techniques were applied to select respondents and key informants. Tools used to collect data included: Interview guide, Questionnaire and Documentary Review Guide. A total of 254 was reached. Study findings revealed that decision making was a shared phenomenon involving a wide range of stakeholders at KYU. It was established concerned leaders and managers cordially demonstrated quick recognition of problems and thus ensure to solve them promptly so as to create peace and continuity. Further, findings revealed that information sharing was effectively done among employees to improve their performance using mechanisms including though not limited to websites, the university blog pages, portal, social media especially Facebook and WhatsApp. At KYU, different communication technologies are applied to communicate across the institution using internet, intercom, notice boards and casual interpersonal interactions. It was established employees were not sufficiently rewarded which spelt out their dissatisfaction with the reward mechanisms in place which negatives influences employee performance. Findings also affirmed that sharing knowledge and experience among employees had an impact on employee performance at KYU as a result of learning from one another. It was thus recommended that KYU top management should build and strengthen relationships based upon humanistic values to motivate employees. The study found it expedient to provide regular and consistent feedback so as to give direction and guidance to subordinates. It was also established that satisfying the financial and monetary needs of employees would seemingly trigger employee effectiveness and efficiency. Conclusively, it was established that upholding appropriate leadership skills in the organization setting stands vital which in alignment nurtures employees’ abilities and thus improves their degree of efficiency and effectiveness. Therefore, upholding good leadership skills would cover performance gaps among employees and thus contribute towards improved performance at KYU.