The impact of ethical leadership on employee engagement: Mediate of corporate social responsibility

Abstract

This study aims to examine not only how ethical leadership (EL) directly affects EE but also how it improves EE through the mediation of genuine and well-thought-out CSR efforts, with the goal of creating a more sustainable and value-driven workplace. The research is based on the Social Learning Theory, Corporate Social Responsibility Theory, and the Self-Determination Theory. A quantitative method was employed to gather data from local employees working in industrial businesses located within Al-Hassan Industrial Estate, Irbid, Jordan. A sample size of 335 individuals was selected. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was used to analyze the data. The findings indicate that EE is significantly increased by ethical leadership, with CSR serving as a key mediator in this relationship. The study contributes to the existing literature on CSR and EL by providing useful implications for companies seeking to enhance employee commitment through ethical conduct and social responsibility programs. The results highlight the importance of EL and CSR in fostering an engaged and motivated workforce. The study offers practical advice for executives aiming to improve employee engagement, emphasizing ethical behavior and socially conscious strategies that are genuinely effective. Additionally, it explores how organizational ethics and CSR influence employee outcomes.