Trust in managers in SME organizations undergoing digitization

Abstract Purpose This article aims to present the results of original empirical research on the diagnosis of factors predicting employee trust in managers in - Small and Medium Enterprises organizations undergoing the process of digitization. The concepts of digitization and trust are both defined and several determinants of trust in managers are established. Design/methodology/approach The research methods used were a study of existing literature, as well as empirical research using quantitative methods, conducted using a questionnaire developed by the authors. Findings The collected factual material indicates that the size of an organization is a variable affecting the level of trust between employees and managers in SME-sector organizations undergoing the process of digitization, and also affects which indicators of trust are professed by employees. Practical implications The conducted research identified leading determinants of trust in managers in SME-sector organizations undergoing digitization. This article contributes to reducing a theoretical knowledge gap in the discussed area, while also indicating tools for optimizing the effectiveness of the human capital management process in a world dominated by modern technologies. Originality/value Employees are a key element of modern organizations, and their success depends on the effectiveness of digital change management. Working in an environment based on trust has a positive effect on employees and thus determines the success of the entire organization. This article fills a research gap regarding the role of trust in relationship between employees and their superiors.