A qualitative study of leadership style effectiveness after military service

Abstract:This qualitative case study investigated the leadership styles that are transferable to the private sector, focusing on the challenges senior military leaders face during their transition into civilian roles. The problem in this study is being addressed is acknowledging the lack of understanding which specific leadership styles are transferable during transition to private sector (Lee, 2017). The Schlossberg conceptual framework, which analyzes human adaptation to transitions, was integral to the study and data collection, offering critical insights into the significance and impact of how service members transition into leadership roles. The objective of this qualitative case study was to gather insights regarding military veterans' perceptions of leadership training during their service, the ways in which this training facilitated their transition to civilian life, and the extent to which the leadership skills acquired were applicable in the civilian sector. (Castaneda, 2020). This research enhances the understanding of how senior military leaders’ leadership styles are affected during the transition to the private sector. Data was collected from 20 participants who had transitioned from the military through a series of open-ended interview questions. Sixteen themes emerged from the data, which are detailed in Chapter Four. The key themes such as adaptation, cultural adjustment, identity and purpose, and adaptability to change underscorethe significance of effective leadership style transfer into the private sector. These themes provide a comprehensive perspective from participants, reflecting their real-time experiences.The findings underscore the necessity for the private sector to adapt to these leadership styles, offering recommendations for future actions. This study provides valuable insights and serves as a foundation for further research, with the potential to explore more specific problems and purposes related to the transition of military leadership into the private sector.