Leadership in times of crisis : a systematic literature review

Abstract

In this study, we examined publication channels to account for the fundamental elements of leadership that promote organizational viability in times of uncertainty. The aim of this study was to spot both empirical and non-empirical studies that investigated crisis leadership by including a 30 article sample in order to evaluate and synthesize the methods, and impacts of crisis leadership. Thus, we strived to come up with an evidence-based answer to how leadership works during crisis and how to apply it. We administered a systematic literature review (SLR), a methodology withdrawn from the medical field to arrange research in a systematic, crystal clear, and reproducible way. A disciplined screening procedure yielded a final sample population of 30 significant studies. The synthesis of these studies showcased: (a) leaders should be aware of their strengths and weaknesses; (b) leaders should adopt more than one leadership style; (c) leaders must possess leadership competencies along with charisma and (d) followers are as important as leaders in a crisis leadership process. These notions help all corporations ameliorate their leadership positions in order to fight crises with minimal setbacks. This study highlighted an effective methodology for framing thematically new topics. We concluded by providing future research directions.