Transformacijsko i transakcijsko rukovođenje u predikciji radnog angažmana: nalazi iz IT sektora / Transformational and Transactional Leadership in Predicting Work Engagement: Findings from the IT Sector

Aldina Leto; Mirna Marković

doi:10.48052/19865244.2026.1.103

Authors

Aldina Leto University „Džemal Bijedić“ Mostar, Faculty of Education
Mirna Marković University of Sarajevo, Faculty of Philosophy

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.48052/19865244.2026.1.103

Keywords:

leadership style, work engagement, IT sector, transformational leadership style, transactional leadership style

Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of transformational and transactional leadership styles on work engagement in the IT sector. The IT industry is characterized by a dynamic and rapidly changing work environment, high turnover rates, and a strong need for innovation, creativity, and teamwork, making leadership style crucial for employee motivation and engagement. The study was conducted with a sample of 334 employees from the IT sector in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Leadership styles were measured using the TLI scale, and work engagement was assessed using the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale. The results revealed a strong positive correlation between transformational leadership style and work engagement, while the transactional leadership style showed a weaker but still significant positive correlation. However, hierarchical regression analysis indicated a significant predictive power of the transformational leadership style and a negative effect of the transactional leadership style on work engagement when both styles were considered simultaneously. These findings emphasize the importance of focusing on the development of transformational leadership as a key factor in enhancing work engagement within the IT sector. The results highlight the importance of strategically developing leadership competencies within the IT sector, with a focus on strengthening transformational leadership practices. Such an approach can significantly contribute to increasing work engagement levels, which is crucial for maintaining competitiveness and innovation in this sector.

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