Paper 42
Exploring the Role of Creative Self-Concept of Digital Leaders for Effective Leadership during Digital Transformations
Oana Velcu-Laitinen, Aalto University, Department of Design
Abstract
In a 2010 IBM study, CEOs around the globe recognised creative leadership to be a valuable competence in complex environments. In the same year, IBM interviewed 700 Global Chief Human Resource Offices, out of which 69% thought they failed in effectively developing the creative capability of their leaders. We believe the investigations into the perceived nature of one’s creative identity as a leader can bring clarity into how creativity can become a personal resource for managing uncertainty and solving the unexpected problems in the workplace.
Digital transformations are a reality that companies need to navigate (Scuotto et al., 2022). This study examines digital leaders’ creative self-concepts as a potential source for leading digital transformations. More specifically, this research aims to understand the nature of digital leaders’ creative self-concept and the contexts when they see it as an opportunity and when they see it as a threat to leading digital transformations (DT).
The creative self-concepts and creative self-beliefs have been explored in eminent creators (Lebuda & Csikszentmihalyi, 2017). However, an extended analysis of these topics in the leadership contexts might enable a better understanding of human development and performance in work-life.
Also, previous research explored the link between transformational leadership and organizational creativity, based on the assumption that employees need to be creative and that specific leadership styles empower employees to think and act creatively (Herman et al., 2023). In this paper, we focus on the leaders’ need to use their creativity and lead through organizational change. We thus explore how the creative self-concept influences the choice of leadership styles and the perceived challenges that trigger leaders’ willingness to lead with creativity.
Details
- Session: Paper session 1
- Scheduled: Monday 8th, 10:30 – 12:00
- Room: 1S3
