Communication is central to leadership, yet discussions of “leadership communication” often rely on vague definitions and lack of clear theoretical foundation. We will look beyond common assumptions about “good leadership communication” and explore how theory and empirical research can help us better understand everyday leadership communication problems and develop evidence-based approaches to leadership practice.

After completing this course, students will be able to:

• discuss leadership communication from a communication science perspective,
• distinguish and compare key theoretical approaches to leadership communication,
• understand how leadership communication can be investigated empirically,
• apply scientific theories and evidence to practical leadership problems.

In accordance with WU regulations for PI-type courses, attendance is mandatory. A maximum of 20% of class time may be missed. Absences may result in the loss of participation and/or in-class assignment points.

The course is structured in three phases:

• Theory: Discover different perspectives on how communication relates to leadership.
• Application: Apply communication-science to real-world leadership problems.
• Integration: Summarize key insights and identify directions for future research and professional practice.

• Active participation: 20% (individual)
• In-class group and individual take-home assignments: 20%
• Group presentation: 30% (group)
• Individual short paper: 30% (individual)

Please log in with your WU account to use all functionalities of read!t. For off-campus access to our licensed electronic resources, remember to activate your VPN connection connection. In case you encounter any technical problems or have questions regarding read!t, please feel free to contact the library at readinglists@wu.ac.at.

I am always happy to answer questions by e-mail. Students are also very welcome to discuss questions in person before or after the sessions. If additional time is needed, individual appointments for an in-person or virtual consultation can easily be arranged by e-mail (berend.barkela@wu.ac.at).