Navigating leadership in uncertain times: the role of personality and context

This study examines the relationship between contextual and personality factors and leadership behavior. Understanding the dynamics of explorative and exploitative leadership behavior is critical in today's organizations. Data from an empirical study of N=139 German leaders from different industries show significant positive correlations between emotional stability, openness to experience and explorative leadership behavior. In addition, perceived environmental uncertainty and autonomy are significant factors that positively influence explorative leadership behavior. These findings offer recommendations for leaders and organizations in turbulent times and highlight the complex interplay of context, personality and leadership behavior.