Understanding wise leadership: Employees’ perspective in Oman’s government sector

Abstract

Orientation: Success is a common goal in both personal and professional life, and wise leadership is key to achieving it. Effective leadership guides and motivates teams, driving them toward success and excellence.

Research purpose: This study examines wise leadership in Oman’s government sector, using Hassi and Storti’s theoretical frameworks. It explores dimensions such as Intellectual Shrewdness, Spurring Action, Moral Conduct, and Cultivating Humility to improve employee awareness and perception.

Motivation for the study: To assess wise leadership qualities across different dimensions and demographic groups to identify strengths and areas for improvement in leadership practices.

Research approach/design and method: A descriptive method was employed, and a questionnaire was used as a data gathering tool. The data were analysed by several techniques including T-tests, ANOVA and descriptive statistics. Data were anonymously collected from 300 respondents across the Ministry of Labour, Ministry of Information and Taxation Authority, representing diverse demographic profiles and organisational ranks.

Main findings: The findings highlight that practical wisdom is vital for organisational resilience, effective communication, and societal well-being in complex governance. While there is broad agreement on key leadership traits, minor discrepancies suggest challenges in applying theoretical ideals, especially concerning vulnerability and humility.

Practical/managerial implications: Providing a detailed look at employees’ views on wise leadership and the impact of personal characteristics on these perceptions.

Contribution/value-add: Provides a comprehensive view of employees’ perceptions of wise leadership and how personal characteristics influence these perceptions.