The influence of leadership style and communication style on employee performance through motivation as a mediating variable

Employee performance in the public sector is a crucial factor in determining the effectiveness of government services. However, low levels of motivation and non-participatory bureaucratic communication remain obstacles to improving employee performance. This study aims to analyze the influence of leadership style and communication style on employee performance, considering work motivation as a mediating variable. This study uses a quantitative approach with a survey method on 204 employees. Data analysis was conducted using the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) technique using the SmartPLS 3 application. The results of the analysis indicate that leadership style and communication style have a positive and significant effect on employee motivation and performance, both directly and indirectly through motivation as a mediating variable. Motivation is proven to be a key factor that bridges the influence of these two variables on performance. This study reinforces the importance of participatory leadership style and open communication in building motivation and improving the performance of public sector employees. The practical implication is the importance of developing leadership capacity and a more inclusive communication system in government organizations.