Transmission of service from leader to followers: A parallel multiple mediator model

We applied social learning theory and social exchange theory to examine a parallel multiple mediator model of how perceived servant leadership affects employee service performance. Data collected from 404 supervisor–subordinate dyads revealed that service climate (environmental factor) and the leader–member relationship (psychological factor) played a parallel mediation role in the relationship between servant leadership and employee service performance. Our findings expand both research on service objects and perspectives on service industries, and provide a new opportunity to clarify the essence of service behavior. The implications of these results and study limitations are discussed.