The Identification of Leadership Competencies within a Global Virtual Organization

This qualitative grounded theory study suggested that there are leadership competencies best suited to enable successful leadership development within global virtual organizations. Competency focused training and development of leaders within global virtual organizations may aid in employee satisfaction and organizational effectiveness. The identification of a theoretical framework did not give way; however, the study highlighted the importance of cultural awareness, technical aptitude, and emotional intelligence within global virtual environments. Pivotal to a successful global virtual experience, leaders need to be strategic thinkers with a mindset towards a results orientation. The ability to maintain the relationships necessary to move forward in execution is a driving force in leader effectiveness. An emphasis on the importance of effective communication and empowering employees to produce results suggested an increased need for awareness into employee needs. Expanding and developing on these competencies that aid in these global virtual environments is a necessary step toward maintaining a competitive advantage and satisfied employee population. In this competitive landscape, it is important that leadership drive performance despite the potential constraints found in a global virtual organization.