Explaining transformational leadership in the digital age: The example of Facebook group leaders

Abstract

The prominence of digital leadership in social networks has established this role as a crucial area of investigation, particularly because these networks serve as key sources of information, decision-making, and support for countless individuals. Consequently, the actions of digital leaders have far-reaching implications for millions of people's lives. This study investigates the phenomenon of digital leadership within social networks, focusing specifically on the case of Facebook group leaders. One hundred eighty-one Facebook group leaders participated in an online survey assessing their overall Transformational Leadership scores and leadership styles. The findings reveal that the leaders primarily employed an authority-based style while exhibiting Idealized Influence (Behavior) style the least frequently. Furthermore, several factors, such as interpersonal skills and digital literacy, were found to be highly significant in determining leadership styles. In contrast, variables such as information literacy, gender, age, education level, group size, and group-related income played a negligible role, if any, in shaping leadership styles. The research findings have implications for leaders in digital spaces and can be applied to enhance leadership skills and create better groups for members in both the business and private sectors.