Elements of credible leadership: Perspectives from a Kenyan context

Abstract: This study seeks to explore what constitutes credibility and how a credible leader is made focusing on leaders in a Kenyan context. The study uses a grounded theory qualitative study approach and conveniently samples three leaders (two male and one female) known as credible leaders in Kenya. Value-based leadership approaches that connect with the credibility construct have been discussed as part of the brief literature review in this study. Semi-structured interviews were used to obtain the views and lived experiences of the participants. The study found that credible leaders are defined as those who exhibit attributes of honesty, trustworthiness, inspiration, accountability, and skill. Further, the study showed that personal values, life experiences, and role models are pivotal in the making of credible leaders. Finally, the findings demonstrate that credible leaders beget credible followers and there is mutuality and reciprocity between leaders and followers in terms of the benefits derived from their relationship when leaders foster credibility. Keywords: Accountability, Authentic, Credible, Credibility, Role model, Value-based. Title: Elements of credible leadership: Perspectives from a Kenyan context Author: Joseph Kimani Maina International Journal of Recent Research in Commerce Economics and Management (IJRRCEM) ISSN 2349-7807 Vol. 9, Issue 2, April 2022 - June 2022 Page No: 52-69 Paper Publications Website: www.paperpublications.org Published Date: 20-May-2022 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.6566371 Paper Download Link: https://www.paperpublications.org/upload/book/Elements%20of%20credible-20052022-4.pdfInternational Journal of Recent Research in Commerce Economics and Management (IJRRCEM), ISSN 2349-7807, Paper Publications, Website: www.paperpublications.or