Analysis of the Influence of Leadership and Human Resources Function on Employee Performance and Strategies for Improving Them at Muara Enim Branch Pawnshops

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the influence of leadership and human resource (HR) functions on employee performance, as well as to formulate strategic recommendations to enhance employee performance at Pegadaian Muara Enim Branch. The research employed a quantitative approach supported by a survey using structured questionnaires. The population consisted of all employees of Pegadaian Muara Enim Branch, and data were processed using SPSS, including validity testing, reliability testing, classical assumption testing, and multiple linear regression analysis. SWOT analysis was used to formulate strategic recommendations. The findings show that leadership has a positive and significant effect on employee performance. The HR function also significantly influences performance, with employee development, training, and job matching identified as strong contributors. The combined effect of leadership and HR function demonstrates high predictive strength toward employee performance. SWOT analysis further identifies strategies such as strengthening competency-based training, improving leadership effectiveness, and optimizing HR administration systems. The study focuses on a single organizational unit, limiting generalizability. Employee responses were self-reported, creating potential bias. This study provides empirical evidence on the importance of leadership and HR functions in improving performance within state-owned financial institutions. The novelty lies in integrating HR function analysis with leadership behavior and linking the findings to a practical strategy model using SWOT to strengthen organizational performance.