E-Leadership Competencies and Organizational Preference for Telework: Evidence from the Portuguese Context

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between e-leadership competencies—assessed through a E-Leadership Competencies (SEC) model—and organizational preference for telework in Portugal. In the context of increasing digitalization and following the widespread experience of remote work driven by the COVID-19 pandemic, it becomes essential to understand the role of e-competence in leading geographically dispersed teams. A quantitative investigation was conducted through the application of an online questionnaire to e-leaders of companies based in Portugal whose teams benefit from telework arrangements. The results indicate that only three of the six e-competencies identified in the SEC model show statistical significance in e-leadership effectiveness, with no relationship observed between perceived effectiveness and organizational investment in telework. Nevertheless, more than 80% of respondents reported that telework has been increasing within their organizations. This study contributes to the adaptation of the SEC model to the Portuguese context and reinforces its importance as a tool for diagnosing and developing e-leadership competencies. Theoretical and practical implications highlight the need to explore new dimensions—including hard skills—and applying the model across different sectors and types of organizations, thus supporting the preparation of e-leaders for an increasingly digital world of work. Overall, by evidencing the SEC model’s successful adaptation in Portugal, the findings underscore the model’s broader applicability and potential for generalization across diverse organizational settings.