Title: The influence of leaders' communication on organisational motivation: a study of Portuguese Armed Forces

Authors: Felipa Lopes dos Reis; Diogo Esteves

Addresses: Lusófona University, Campo Grande 376, 1749-024 Lisbon, Portugal ' Lusófona University, Campo Grande 376, 1749-024 Lisbon, Portugal

Abstract: This study examines how leadership and communication affect motivation and, consequently, organisational performance in the Portuguese Armed Forces (FFAA). Motivation is identified as a key factor in recruitment and retention challenges faced by the FFAA. The study aims to understand how military leaders' communication styles impact their subordinates' motivation and performance. The central research question is: 'Does communication from leaders influence the performance of Portuguese military personnel through motivation?' Methodologically, the study adopts a descriptive, mixed-methods approach, using a questionnaire survey applied to active, reserve, and available personnel within military units under the General Staff. With 105 valid responses, findings reveal that leadership communication significantly influences subordinates' motivation. Intrinsic factors are most associated with performance variations. The results highlight existing gaps within the FFAA that, if addressed, could improve retention and enhance performance across the ranks, thereby strengthening organisational effectiveness and long-term sustainability.

Keywords: communication; leadership; motivation; performance.

DOI: 10.1504/IJKMTH.2025.151630

International Journal of Knowledge Management in Tourism and Hospitality, 2025 Vol.4 No.4, pp.277 - 339

Received: 26 Jul 2024
Accepted: 14 Aug 2024
Published online: 10 Feb 2026 *

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