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A cross-cultural exploration of leadership and followership in public relations

Geah Pressgrove et al.

Journal of Communication Management2026https://doi.org/10.1108/jcom-04-2025-0103article
AJG 1ABDC B
Weight
0.50

Abstract

Purpose This study examines the evolving role of global public relations leaders, highlighting the interconnection between leadership and followership across diverse cultural contexts. Design/methodology/approach Based on in-depth interviews conducted around the world, we examine the priorities of 38 senior public relations professionals and analyze the various factors that influence decision-making and expectations. Findings Findings highlight a shift toward community-centered leadership grounded in knowledge sharing and succession planning. The research extends transformational leadership theory by proposing a hybrid model that integrates transactional strategies and emphasizes relational dynamics, including psychological safety and co-creation. Additionally, the study contributes to cross-cultural leadership scholarship by highlighting the importance of cultural intelligence and boundary dwelling for effective global practice. Originality/value These insights offer both theoretical and practical implications for fostering inclusive, adaptive and ethically grounded leadership in public relations.

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https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1108/jcom-04-2025-0103

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@article{geah2026,
  title        = {{A cross-cultural exploration of leadership and followership in public relations}},
  author       = {Geah Pressgrove et al.},
  journal      = {Journal of Communication Management},
  year         = {2026},
  doi          = {https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1108/jcom-04-2025-0103},
}

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A cross-cultural exploration of leadership and followership in public relations

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Evidence weight

0.50

Balanced mode · F 0.40 / M 0.15 / V 0.05 / R 0.40

F · citation impact0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20
M · momentum0.50 × 0.15 = 0.07
V · venue signal0.50 × 0.05 = 0.03
R · text relevance †0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20

† Text relevance is estimated at 0.50 on the detail page — for your query’s actual relevance score, open this paper from a search result.