Abstract

This study explores the influence of authentic leadership on employee work happiness in a social media-driven work environment, focusing on mindfulness as a mediating factor through Social Cognitive Theory (SCT). A survey of 373 employees from the manufacturing sector in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area was conducted, with structural equation modelling (SEM) employed to analyse the data. The findings indicate a significant positive relationship between authentic leadership and work happiness, while social media usage negatively impacts employee happiness. Furthermore, when it comes to job satisfaction, the association among social media use and authentic leadership is mediated by mindfulness. This study advances theoretical understanding of leadership and worker well-being and offers helpful suggestions for company executives looking to increase worker satisfaction through mindful procedures and successful leadership techniques.