Abstract
This article deals with selected ambivalences of leadership communication in the digital age. These ambivalences arise from the highly dynamic and complex nature of information in the digital age as well as from the challenges of leading virtual or hybrid teams. To communicate authentically and successfully leaders need to combine rapid-decision making under uncertainty with a long-term vision that provides stable and lasting solutions. Moreover, they need to be able to collaborate with their team and focus on a consensus-oriented communication approach while still occupying a higher hierarchical position that requires them to provide orientation and goals. With regard to leadership in virtual or hybrid teams, leaders need to use digital technology appropriately to stay in control of work progress and results while at the same time establishing a culture of trust and autonomy without losing their connection to the company’s culture and values. In this context it is likewise important to balance distance and closeness, that is, to be attentive to the well-being and individual needs of the employees without violating their privacy. Finally, leadership communication needs both rational and emotional components to combine task-oriented and people-oriented leadership.
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Kneip, V. (2023). Ambivalences of Leadership Communication in the Digital Age. In: Pfeffermann, N., Schaller, M. (eds) New Leadership Communication—Inspire Your Horizon. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-34314-8_17
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