An Exploratory Literature Study into Digital Transformation and Leadership: Toward Future-Proof Middle Managers

Abstract

This study aimed to obtain insight into the influence digital transformation has on future leadership behaviors and management. Up to now, most literature solely focuses on the need for strong strategic leadership to build and lead the transformation. This study was directed at future leadership behaviors and skills needed during and after digital transformation of management below senior level. An exploratory approach to review literature on digital transformation and leadership was used, inspired by the PRISMA protocol. Our findings show that digital transformation is a disruptive process that impacts the whole organization and results in new forms of working. This calls for altro-centric leadership, an other-centered leadership style. Specifically, soft skills such as empathy, humility, integrity and compassion are becoming increasingly important, as is understanding the power of digital technology. The emergence of artificial intelligence offers interesting opportunities. It could be used to handle quantifiable managerial tasks and evaluate the quantifiable part of performance, while managers focus on the soft skills side of management such as coaching, motivating and empowering employees. This study demonstrates the necessity to redefine leadership requirements in an increasingly digitalized world.

Digital Transformation Impact on Organization Management and Several Necessary Protective Actions

“…The leading function of management can be enhanced through digital transformation, allowing managers to effectively engage with employees and customers through new digital channels such as Zoom, Teams, and more (Henderikx & Stoffers, 2022). With the increasing number of organizations that undergo digital transformation, it is becoming evident that the leading challenges extend beyond top management to all levels of management (Petry, 2018).…”

Do Generative Leadership and Digital Literacy of Executive Management Help Flourishing Micro and Small Business Digital Maturity?

“…In this context, the previous literature has conceptually discussed the leadership characteristics and skills that drive business enterprises' digital transformation and digitalization efforts. Since a large stream of research has mainly focused on the necessary leadership characteristics (Henderikx & Stoffers, 2022). Emphasizing that traditional leadership characteristics are insufficient in the digital era (Kaivo-oja et al, 2016), the leader's innovativeness and willingness, the ability to establish interactive relationships, and the ability to find creative solutions and be cooperative are accepted more significantly.…”

“…Our finding supports this for generative leaders. Moreover, Henderikx and Stoffers (2022) indicate that managers, especially senior managers, should be capable of sensing technological trends and have the knowledge and skills to utilize such resources effectively. They need adaptive skills and digital know-how to lead digital transformations.…”

Di̇ji̇tal Li̇derli̇k: Bi̇r Ölçek Uyarlama Çalişmasi

“…Örgütte dijital yeteneklerin kazanılması ve örgüt kültürünün dönüştürülmesi maksadıyla örgütün tüm kaynaklarını konsolide eden ve dijital dönüşüm sürecinin etkin bir şekilde yürütülmesi adına uygun stratejileri tayin eden, dijital liderdir (Yıkılmaz ve Sürücü, 2021). Önemi nedeniyle dijital liderliği inceleyen araştırmaların yapılması yönünde çağrıları arttırmıştır (Henderikx ve Stoffers, 2022;Kraus vd., 2022)…”