Leadership style and management skills as predictors of hospitality and tourism management students’ leadership behavior

Abstract

In today’s competitive hospitality and tourism industry, cultivating effective leadership behaviors among students is vital for their future success. This study examines the predictive relationship between leadership styles and management skills on the leadership behavior of Hospitality Management (HM) and Tourism Management (TM) students. Understanding this interplay can guide the enhancement of educational programs to shape future industry leaders. A cross-sectional quantitative approach was employed, involving 204 students from a private institution. Survey data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including Pearson correlation, ANOVA, and regression analysis. Results show that students demonstrate high leadership styles, strong management skills, and evident leadership behaviors. Management skills significantly vary by age, while leadership styles and behaviors remain consistent across demographic variables. A significant negative correlation between leadership styles and management skills suggests differing focus areas in developing these competencies, emphasizing the need for balanced educational strategies. However, the relationships between leadership styles and behavior, and management skills and behavior were not statistically significant, highlighting the potential influence of external and organizational factors on leadership behavior. These findings underscore the complexity of leadership development and the necessity of holistic educational and training programs that extend beyond individual perceptions. The study recommends integrating transformational leadership and management skill development in the program to better prepare students for leadership roles in the hotel and tourism industries. This has implications for curriculum designers, educators, and industry professionals aiming to foster well-rounded future leaders in hospitality and tourism.