Effect of Transformational Leader Communication on Affective Commitment to Change

Extant literature indicates the role played by transformational leadership in bringing about organizational change in general, and affective commitment to change in particular. However, it does not explain the process through which transformational leadership at the top management level influences individual attitudes across the levels of hierarchy. This paper identifies communication as a common and an integral component of charismatic leadership, inspirational motivation, intellectual stimulation and individualized consideration impacting employees. Drawing on the literature on transformational leadership and change, the paper proposes a theoretical understanding of how transformational leader communication facilitates employee affective commitment to change. Additionally, it explores the intervening role of organizational identification in the relationship. The paper contributes by demonstrating the salience of leadership communication in bringing about organizational change. Also, it elucidates the key characteristics of communication and organizational identification which are instrumental in promoting affective commitment towards change. Implications of theory and practice and future directions for research are discussed.