Is working from home working, for the leaders in the creative industry? : - A case study exploring the influence of remote working on leadership productivity in the creative industries, due to Covid 19.

Abstract: Background: With the emerge of increased digitalization and remote working due to the current pandemic Covid 19, leaders are challenged to adapt to the situation by leading virtually and changing normal work practices and processes. To maintain and follow the social guidelines made by the WHO, several companies have implemented remote working as a strategy that may affect the ability to be a productive leader.  Purpose: The purpose of this study is therefore to explore the influence remote working has had on leadership productivity due to Covid 19, and how this may hinder or benefit organizations in the creative industries.  Method: This research is an exploratory qualitative study conducted, focusing on one single organization where semi-structured, and in-depth interviews were held with eight participants who were all leaders in different forms. A thematic analysis was used to investigate the primary data.  Conclusion: The empirical findings suggest three main areas that explain the influence of re- mote working on leadership productivity: 1) Remote working in the creative industries are seen as having an overall successful impact on leadership productivity. 2) Leadership productivity is highly dependent on personal preferences and individual qualities. 3) A new type of business model is arising.