Turkish Type Leader Profile: A Qualitative Research on Academics

Abstract

The first academic studies of leadership evaluated leadership with dimensions thought to be universal. However, these studies have originated in America and are shaped by that culture. In recent years intercultural leadeship studies have revealed a different perspective. These studies have shown that there is cultural diversities about leadership traits and behaviors. In this context, this study was conducted to answer the question ?Is it possible to talk about Turkish Type Leader concept by bringing together the behavior dimensions and expectations which come out by the effect of the cultural structure??. In this study emic aproach is considirated appropriate. The scope of the research interviews with academicians who are experts in their field were performed. The personality characteristics and behaviours which a Turkish type leader should have were evaluated. It has also been studied Turkish type leader?s characteristics and behaviours. Data were analyzed using content analysis of qualitative research methods. According to the findings, it has been determined that with the impact of the cultural and historical characteristics there may be a concept of Turkish Type Leader. Turkish Type leader has an authoritarian and decisive personality, he asks the opinions of his subordinates, but he makes the final decision and expect them to honour his decision while acting like a father to them. He is protecting a certain hierarchical limit. According to the participants the best leader fits to the concept of Turkish Type Leader was identified as Mehmet the Conqueror.