Leadership Excellence in Interdependent Contexts: Self-Validation and Identity Confirmation as Antecedents to and Co-Requisites of Leader Effectiveness -Through and Beyond Behavioural Integrity

Abstract

A leader’s identity related to his or her behavioural integrity (the perceived alignment between one’s words, values and actions) is critically important for creating healthy interpersonal and organizational outcomes, especially in contexts of high interdependence. To the extent that this identity can be validated and confirmed (by and for both the leader and subordinates), it can further reinforce and strengthen behavioural integrity in those individuals, their teams and the broader organization. Organizations where there is validated alignment between how leaders and individuals see themselves and each other can foster a culture that promotes behavioural integrity among all of these members. Cultural features (e.g., language, symbols, narratives, practices, etc.) can further enhance a context where identities are validated and confirmed, leading to positive organizational outcomes. Recommendations for future research are discussed.