Effects of managers’ communication styles on employees’ job satisfaction

This study aims to identify which managerial communication styles most significantly influence employees’ job satisfaction and to propose an effective style that managers can adopt to enhance job satisfaction of employees in the Department of Corrections (DOC). It employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection techniques. A total of 55 participants completed close-ended questionnaires, which were distributed via Google Forms. Six participants took part in in-depth interviews to provide qualitative insights. The interviews were conducted both face-to-face and via the video conferencing platform Google Meet to accommodate participant availability and preferences. The results showed that the passive-aggressive communication style was negatively associated with job satisfaction, while the assertive communication style was positively associated with it. Furthermore, qualitative analyses from in-depth interviews revealed that behaviors such as clear communication, openness and honesty, and providing support to employees were key factors of assertive communication. These findings reinforce the quantitative results and offer deeper insight into how assertive communication can enhance job satisfaction. The study implies that managers who adopt an assertive communication style can foster a more satisfied and motivated workforce, ultimately contributing to a more positive and productive work environment.