This chapter explores transformational leadership within the complex milieu of a global context, focusing on three core elements: emotional intelligence (EQ), perfectionism, and moral compass. The research scrutinizes the interplay of these components and their impact on effective leadership, especially amidst external challenges such as pandemics, war, and artificial intelligence (AI) advances. It introduces the triadic leadership theory (TLT), highlighting its relevance and implications in the international arena. The TLT, acknowledging the globalized setting, posits that EQ, perfectionism, and moral compass form an interconnected triad that leaders can leverage to drive organizational success. The chapter ends with a reflection on the limitations of the current study, suggesting areas for future research.
TopIntroduction
The transformation of the twenty-first-century leadership landscape has undergone an unprecedented seismic shift in the annals of organizational behavior and management. In the eye of the storm were two monumental crises that dramatically reshaped our world: the COVID-19 pandemic and the Ukraine War. These global events instigated a reordering of the socio-political and economic dynamics and invoked a profound recalibration of leadership styles and strategies (Kanekar & Sharma, 2020). The consequential challenges arising from these events have underscored the pivotal role of transformational leaders in driving organizational success within this newly formed global context.
In response to these crises, the workforce landscape has evolved dramatically, primarily due to the escalating prevalence of remote work and virtual teams. This shift has compelled leaders to revise their approach toward employee engagement, performance management, and team cohesion (Barko & Bohrer, 2020). Further, the increasing reliance on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in business operations has demanded that leaders cultivate a more sophisticated understanding of technological dynamics, their implications on productivity, employee morale, and potential ethical considerations (Cox & Blake, 1991). Together, these developments have profoundly changed the demands placed on leaders, prompting them to adopt transformational strategies to lead effectively in this new paradigm.
Moreover, the amplification of intercultural interactions within organizations, facilitated by the advent of virtual teams and technology, has necessitated leaders to bolster their cultural intelligence. Today's leaders are expected to adeptly navigate cultural disparities, manage diverse teams, and foster an inclusive work environment to drive organizational success (Earley & Mosakowski, 2004; Gudykunst & Ting-Toomey, 1988). As organizations expand their footprint globally, understanding and valuing the nuances of cultural diversity is no longer an elective competency for leaders but a requisite (Gupta & Govindarajan, 2002). In today's complex and interconnected world, organizational success is driven by leaders who possess transformational leadership skills, emotional intelligence, perfectionism, and a strong moral compass.
Statement of the Problem
This shift in the work environment necessitates a new leadership style that considers emotional intelligence (EQ), perfectionism, and moral compass. EQ is integral to a leader's ability to understand, manage, and respond effectively to emotions within themselves and others (Wong & Law, 2002; Goleman, 1998). Although often seen negatively, perfectionism can foster high standards, diligence, and persistence, contributing to superior performance (Stoeber & Otto, 2006). Moreover, a leader's moral compass, influenced by the societal and economic shifts triggered by the double-dip recession, is pivotal in guiding their decision-making and actions (Trevino et al., 2000).
The problem lies in that existing research inadequately addresses how EQ, perfectionism, and moral compass interplay within the context of transformational leadership in a globally interconnected work environment (Rudolph et al., 2020; Wang & Guan, 2018). Additionally, the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on global leadership still needs to be explored.