THE Essence of E-leadership During COVID-19

Abstract: The Covid-19 pandemic has, besides the health risks involved, sourced an unprecedented economic and social disaster that has particularly affected working life. Working from home and leading employees through digital platforms, i.e., E-leadership,  has become the new norm. The aim of this qualitative study was to investigate managers’ perception and execution of mandatory E-leadership during the pandemic. The study also explored difficulties experienced as related to E-leadership  and suggestions on how to improve it. In-depth interviews were conducted with 11 managers within education, finance, IT and HR. Content analysis revealed three themes: journey of  E-leadership; stumbling blocks on the digitalized journey; and pillars of E-leadership. Together, these findings expand our understanding of how in particular transformational leadership behaviors can enhance the experience and execution of E-leadership, and where building and maintaining conditions such as trust, communication and empathy along with digital expertise are crucial. Recommendations on improvement of E-leadership regard E-structure, routines for self-discipline, and E-trainings.