The Role of Leadership in Creating a Positive Organizational Culture: A Literature Review

Authors

Keywords:

Workplace wellbeing, Organizational adaptability, Ethical behavior, Empowerment, Talent retention

Abstract

DOI: https://doi.org/10.46296/rc.v8i15.0351

This literature review examines the fundamental role of leadership in forming and sustaining positive organizational cultures. Through a comprehensive analysis of several studies published between 2014 and 2024, the most effective leadership styles for promoting healthy work environments are identified. Findings reveal that transformational leadership, characterized by inspiration and motivation toward a shared vision, and servant leadership, focused on employee wellbeing, are particularly effective in developing positive cultures. A bidirectional relationship between leadership and organizational culture is established, where leaders not only shape the culture but are also influenced by it. The research identifies key elements that characterize a positive organizational culture: trust, effective communication, collaboration, commitment, recognition, and workplace flexibility. These components do not emerge spontaneously but are cultivated through consistent leadership practices. The implications suggest that organizations should invest in developing transformational and servant leadership competencies as a strategy to improve their organizational culture, especially in environments requiring adaptability and innovation. This study contributes to understanding how leaders can create work environments that simultaneously promote employee wellbeing and sustainable organizational performance.

Keywords: Workplace wellbeing, Organizational adaptability, Ethical behavior, Empowerment, Talent retention.

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References

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Published

2025-04-10

How to Cite

Allán-Baño, G. M., Naranjo-Sagñay, W. C., Zavala-Ponce, C. V., & Sornoza-Parrales, D. (2025). The Role of Leadership in Creating a Positive Organizational Culture: A Literature Review. Revista Científica Arbitrada De Investigación En Comunicación, Marketing Y Empresa REICOMUNICAR. ISSN 2737-6354., 8(15), 688-706. Retrieved from https://reicomunicar.org/index.php/reicomunicar/article/view/418