Multilevel effects of transformational leadership: Exploring the role of transactive memory systems

This study examines the role of transactive memory systems in explaining the effects of transformational leadership at multiple levels of analysis. To better understand the mechanisms underlying transformational leadership, we... [ view full abstract ]

This study examines the role of transactive memory systems in explaining the effects of transformational leadership at multiple levels of analysis. To better understand the mechanisms underlying transformational leadership, we identify and integrate the concept of a transactive memory system—that is, a shared system of team members for learning, storing, and retrieving information—as a relevant mechanism through which leaders can achieve the desired outcomes for their teams. Using responses from 86 team leaders and 414 team members, we show a positive direct effect of transformational leadership on individual job satisfaction but a nonsignificant effect on team performance. Moreover, we find that a transactive memory system mediates the cross-level effect of team-level transformational leadership on job satisfaction. Concurrently, the cross-level effect of team-level transformational leadership turns negative, which points to an omitted mediator that could account for this negative effect. We discuss implications for transformational leadership research and practice.