Role of Servant Leadership on Employee Work Performance in Higher Education

This study was conducted as a qualitative, single case study. This study obtained data from online Zoom interviews collected from semi-structured, open-ended interview questions. This study aims to examine what role servant leadership has in employee work performance in higher education institutions in West Virginia, from the lived experiences and perceptions of employees and supervisors. The significance of this study is tied to the understanding of the direct link between servant leadership and employee performance. Literature review reflected servant leadership as a way to generate more impactful contributions from the individual contributor, as it has a positive impact on employee engagement, performance, and workplace culture. The sample size was fifteen (15) participants, where ten (10) were classified as employees and five (5) as supervisors. A coding approach was used to segment the data collection for analysis to identify themes. Data analysis utilized the online web-based research and data analytical platform, Dedoose. Both deductive and inducive coding techniques were used to help identify common themes. Five (5) predominant themes emerged from the conclusion of the thematic analysis of the study: lack of trust in leadership; interpersonal managerial relationships; leadership training and development; competing priorities; and lack of workforce respect. This study will add to the overall body of knowledge of leadership, especially that of servant leadership. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]