Leadership styles and business performance: a study of service-based SMEs amidst the COVID-19 pandemic in Klang Valley, Malaysia
by Yow Hong Tay; Osaro Aigbogun
International Journal of Business Performance Management (IJBPM), Vol. 25, No. 1, 2024

Abstract: The lacklustre performance of Malaysian SMEs was exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study aims to understand factors affecting SME survival in an environment characterised by volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity (VUCA), from a leadership perspective. A qualitative method was employed using a multiple case study design to better understand the experiences of the target population who are owners/managers in the SME services sub-sector in Malaysia during the COVID-19 pandemic. They were recruited using a purposive sample technique and the data were analysed using NVivo 11® data analysis software. From the study, SME leaders who have acclimatised to the new normal of COVID-19 by inspiring and empathising with employees while practising effective communication, and collective leadership with the use of digital technology survived the crisis. Leadership best practices were maintained by creativity, innovation and lifelong learning. The findings suggest an adaptive leadership style that combines traits from multiple dominant styles.

Online publication date: Fri, 01-Dec-2023

The full text of this article is only available to individual subscribers or to users at subscribing institutions.

 
Existing subscribers:
Go to Inderscience Online Journals to access the Full Text of this article.

Pay per view:
If you are not a subscriber and you just want to read the full contents of this article, buy online access here.

Complimentary Subscribers, Editors or Members of the Editorial Board of the International Journal of Business Performance Management (IJBPM):
Login with your Inderscience username and password:

Username:        Password:          Forgotten your password?

Want to subscribe?
A subscription gives you complete access to all articles in the current issue, as well as to all articles in the previous three years (where applicable). See our Orders page to subscribe.

If you still need assistance, please email subs@inderscience.com