The effect of charismatic leadership on coordinated teamwork: a study in Turkey

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of behavioral dimensions constituting the essence of charismatic leadership (CL) on coordinated teamwork (CTW).

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 113 members among 20 ad hoc project teams formed by specialists and assistant specialists employed in a public institution. Simple linear and multiple regression models were employed to analyze the effect of CL on CTW.

Findings

The behavioral dimensions of CL, which include possessing a strategic vision and articulation skill, sensitivity to the environment and sensitivity to member needs, were found to have a significant and positive effect on CTW, while the personal risk and unconventional behavior dispositions of a leader were found to render no significant effect on CTW.

Research limitations/implications

Having tested the effect of CL behaviors on CTW, this particular model provides salient implications in clarifying which CL behaviors particularly render a significant effect on CTW and the consequential effectiveness of teamwork. Nevertheless, there is a need for longitudinal studies conducted in a range of different sectors and institutions.

Originality/value

The originality of this empirical study is that it advances the grasp of the relationship between CTW and the behavioral factors of CL.

Citation

Ekmekcioglu, E.B., Aydintan, B. and Celebi, M. (2018), "The effect of charismatic leadership on coordinated teamwork: a study in Turkey", Leadership & Organization Development Journal, Vol. 39 No. 8, pp. 1051-1070. https://doi.org/10.1108/LODJ-07-2017-0193