How Digitalization has Affected Leadership
The function of leadership is experiencing a significant transition in the fast-paced digital
era. As enterprises traverse the complex intersection of technology, globalization, and the
continually evolving demands of consumers, executives are necessitated to adapt and innovate.
In the digital era, companies require a new type of leader: transformational leaders who can
advocate for all stakeholders amidst the sweeping changes occurring globally. Transformational
leadership occurs when leaders and followers elevate each other to a superior degree of
morality and motivation. Transformational leadership is characterized by its influence on
followers, encompassing elements such as ethical standards, authenticity, cohesion, and
persuasive communication. “In particular, leaders must face up to change and actively shape
the future" (Faix, 2020). The soft aspects of transformational leadership, including vision,
inspiration, and motivation, are lacking. Understanding environmental dynamics, developing
digital transformation strategies for sustainability and growth, innovating business models,
prioritizing relentless and cohesive execution, and fostering organizational culture change are
the new dimensions of transformational leadership in the digital era. How can one attain the
status of a transformative leader and develop the aforementioned competencies? One must
possess a growth attitude, exhibit openness to the external environment, engage in risk-taking,
and accept technological advancements.
Biblical Integration
I John 2:6. "Whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he
walked". This verse suggests that adaptive capacity is a necessary skill for leaders and for
anyone who wants to live a life devoted to God. Adaptive capacity is a necessary skill not only
for leaders but for every person who longs to live a life of devotion to God.
References
Faix, W. G. (2020). Editorial special issue „Leadership in a digital world. Leadership, Education,
Personality: An Interdisciplinary Journal, 2(1), 1-2.
https://doi.org/10.1365/s42681-019-00004-y
