The Level of Empowerment Behavior among Employees: The Saudi Banks Context
Keywords:
Banks, Employee behavior, Empowerment, Saudi ArabiaAbstract
The purpose of this study is to provide a contribution to the existing body of knowledge concerning the level of employees’ empowerment among bank employees. Considering the current competitiveness found in the different economic sectors, especially in commercial banks, the survival and excellence in this sector heavily relies on banks' flexibility and ability to adapt in the marketplace by adopting empowerment among employees able to increase their competitive advantage. This study may provide useful information for managers working in human resource management to develop training programs for high and middle managers to delegate their authority to employees. Furthermore, the study may provide some invaluable information about empowerment behaviors in the banking sector, and this may help in creating an organizational environment that increases creativity, especially in commercial banks that are always seeking excellence. The research was carried out by administering a structured questionnaire to 114 staff members of Al Rajhi Bank in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The study questionnaire was adapted from previously conducted research. The results showed that participation in decision-making, implementing team management, and training and education of employees were at high level. However, delegation of authority and creating a supportive culture were at moderate level among employees.. There were several recommendations and suggestions made for additional research.
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