Title: Understanding the drivers of energy network formation in interpersonal communication in the workplace: a qualitative analysis

Authors: Esmaeil Kakehbaraei; Mansour Irandoost; Jamal Adhami

Addresses: Department of Management, Faculty of Humanities, Islamic Azad University, Sanandaj Branch, Sanandaj, Iran ' Department of Management, Faculty of Humanities, Islamic Azad University, Sanandaj Branch, Sanandaj, Iran ' Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities, Islamic Azad University, Sanandaj Branch, Sanandaj, Iran

Abstract: This study examined the factors that influence the formation of energy networks in employees' interpersonal communication. Braun and Clark's reflective theme analysis (RTA) method was used in this study. Participants included (N = 15) healthcare professionals and executives. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and using purposive sampling. Analysis of this research revealed that energy network antecedents were identified through a process of individual influences (humour, positive thinking, trust, honesty, empathy, similarity between people, and body language) and situational influences (procedural justice, sense of shared identity, control mechanisms, performance feedback, and mutual respect). This research suggests that the energy network is an essential factor in the workplace and that manager and employees should take steps to create and maintain energy networks. In addition, the results of this study provide new insights into the social psychology of communication.

Keywords: communication; network; energy; qualitative approach; reflective theme analysis; RTA.

DOI: 10.1504/IJLIC.2025.146008

International Journal of Learning and Intellectual Capital, 2025 Vol.22 No.1, pp.73 - 95

Received: 20 Mar 2024
Accepted: 16 Dec 2024
Published online: 01 May 2025 *

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