Four key factors reinforce ethical leadership in a remote setting, according to research from Auburn University, MTSU, and the universities of South and North Alabama. Employees are likely to perform better and be more committed to an organization when supervised by ethical leaders, even remotely.
Ethical leadership is characterized by values such as integrity, fairness, and care for others, demonstrated through a leader's actions. The shift to remote work has raised questions about maintaining these values without face-to-face interactions.
Why It Matters
With 22% of the US workforce expected to work remotely by 2025, understanding how to maintain an ethical culture remotely is crucial. Sales positions, in particular, have seen a 48% increase in remote job postings in 2023 compared to the previous year.
Key Findings
- Consistent and transparent communication builds trust.
- Occasional in-person interactions strengthen relationships.
- Modelling integrity sets a standard for the team.
- Establishing clear ethical standards ensures everyone is aligned.
Challenges and Opportunities
Remote work presents both challenges and opportunities for ethical leadership. While technology can create barriers to trust, advances in communication tools like video calls and emojis help convey emotions and intentions more clearly.
What’s Next?
Understanding communication effectiveness and tailoring leadership approaches to individual differences, such as age or experience, will be key. As hybrid work becomes more common, the mix of in-person and remote interactions will impact how ethical leadership is perceived and practiced.
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