Staying connected: The crucial nexus of information and communication technology and trust when leading SME employees who work flexibly

In this article the nexus between ICT, leadership and trust is examined with reference to employees that work flexibly in place and time in SMEs. Via in-depth interviews, participants discuss how these aspects must be designed. The results reflect that the availability of high-quality ICT and correct usage of it is a critical aspect, as it can hinder leadership due to interrupted communication flows. Transformational leadership sets a well-functioning and trust-increasing framework because it does not rely on controlling employees by turning on webcams from afar. Trust is the foundation for flexible working, which must exist both between leaders and employees and between employees and colleagues. The analysis of the empirical findings suggests that technological aspects of virtual leadership are crucial because these have the power to successfully enable and empower leading employees or vice versa. This study presents a conceptual framework which depicts the relationships grounded by the data.