Building Organizational Trust through Ethical Leadership: A Management Perspective
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31305/rhimrj.2026.v13n01.024Keywords:
Organizational Trust, Ethical Leadership, employee commitment, reinforcementAbstract
In an era marked by corporate scandals, leadership failures, and growing stakeholder skepticism, organizational trust has emerged as a critical differentiator between thriving enterprises and those that falter. This article examines the relationship between ethical leadership and organizational trust from a management perspective, arguing that trust is not merely a desirable quality but the bedrock upon which sustainable organizational success is built. Drawing on the Ethical Leadership Ecosystem Model (ELEM), this analysis demonstrates that ethical leadership, organizational integrity, and follower trust constitute an interdependent, dynamic system rather than a unidirectional causal chain. Through examination of foundational principles, practical pathways, and real-world applications, this article provides a comprehensive framework for managers seeking to cultivate trust through ethical leadership practices.
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