A Qualitative Phenomenological Study on Leadership Behaviors That Can Support Minority Advancement

Date of Award

Spring 2024

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

Committee Chair

Kathy Richie

Committee Member

Tonia Young-Babb

Committee Member

Sarah Jouganatos

Abstract

The research explored the underrepresentation of minorities (racial/ethnic minorities) in leadership roles in the workplace. With the recent surge of diversity programs, minority representation has grown in lower-level roles; however, minorities are sparse in higher-status roles. The study utilized literature and a phenomenological qualitative design to collect participant data. Leaders and organizations must understand the behaviors that can help BIPOC people advance into leadership roles. The purpose of this study was to discover why there is a low representation of minorities in leadership roles and how current leaders can help them advance in their organization. The study utilized a qualitative methodology phenomenological design to collect data from 11 minorities (racial/ethnic minorities). LinkedIn community was used to find the sample for interviewing. Semi-structured questions were used to gather data from participants' experiences in the workforce. Atlas. It was implemented to help establish themes and codes from the interviews. Participants described their challenges when looking to advance and how they overcame them. In addition, they also share leadership behaviors that can assist minorities with career growth. Understanding the obstacles that minorities face and the behaviors to help them succeed can help organizations strategize and grow in markets they don’t have representation. Additionally, it builds strength regarding the recruitment and retention of minorities and contributes to innovation.

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