Diversity as an aspect of effective leadership: integrating and moving forward
Purpose The purpose of this paper is to elaborate an integrative framework that positions diversity considerations in a continuum of various leadership theories. The authors thus seek to differentiate between distinct leadership styles and assess their potential in fostering inclusive leader behaviors. Design/methodology/approach The authors proceed to a brief review of the extant literature on diversity leadership by distinguishing between diverse followers and diverse leaders on one hand, and leadership styles in diverse and heterogeneous teams, on the other. The authors then provide a rationale for leadership theories that are more likely to support leader inclusiveness and foster inclusive leader and follower behaviors. Findings Four distinct theoretical frameworks capturing the importance of emerging leadership theories (ethical, authentic. servant and spiritual leadership) for informing caring and inclusive climates, are introduced. The authors thus seek to delineate leadership styles effectiv.