Morale is measured in the extent an individual’s needs are being met and the level of satisfaction they gain from what they do. Morale is high when there is interest in and enthusiasm for the job one does. Morale is what a person believes and feels, rather than what others may think of them or their team. The benefit to an organization for having high morale among its’ members are increased satisfaction and productivity. It is, therefore, incumbent upon leaders to act in ways that contribute to positive morale among their team members.
Research into leadership style found it was a single factor that significantly contributed to team morale: rapport (Bhella, 1982). It was a leaders’ rapport with team members that most influenced the members’ perceptions of the leader’s concern for people and their production. To boost team morale, a leader must first develop a close, harmonious relationship with team members. Establishing good rapport promotes an understanding of each other’s feelings and ideas, allows the leader to understand the needs of and satisfaction of team members, and opens clear, honest lines of communication.
Reference
Bhella, S. (1982). Principal’s leadership style: Does it affect teacher morale? Education, 102(4), 369.
