Interpersonal and intrapersonal leadership competencies: an interpretative phenomenological analysis on effective leadership strategies

Competencies were categorized under the five competency areas, with further exploration of interpersonal and intrapersonal impacts. The iterative analysis revealed recurring competencies across all areas. Intrapersonal competencies included personal growth through change, leadership through vision and resilience, continuous learning, innovative thinking and openness, and resilience in personal challenges. Meanwhile, interpersonal competencies included collective innovation, effective communication, transformative client engagement, empathetic conflict resolution, and building adaptive teams. These enabled leaders to maintain their competence in navigating organizational challenges, including the pandemic, technological advancements, and evolving workforce dynamics. These findings suggest that effective leadership operates on both individual and interpersonal levels. Leaders' internal processes significantly influence their relationships and interactions. Resilient leaders stabilize teams during crises, while a commitment to continuous learning fosters innovation and collaboration. Strong communication skills promote knowledge sharing and strengthen relationships with clients, subordinates, and stakeholders. Empathetic leadership reduces stress and conflict, creating healthier work environments. Finally, leaders' motivation and dedication inspire team transformation and adaptability. Thus, these leadership competencies are instrumental in sustaining a competitive edge and driving organizational growth amidst a dynamic business environment.