The Role of Values-Based Leadership in Enhancing Organizational Image: A Field Study of the Directorate General of Labour in Dhofar Governorate, Oman

Abstract

This study examines the role of values-based leadership in enhancing organizational image at the Directorate General of Labour in Dhofar Governorate, Oman. The study population comprised 678 employees. A convenience sample of 246 employees received an electronic questionnaire, and 234 usable responses were returned. Using a descriptive-analytical, cross-sectional design, the study assessed three values-based leadership dimensions—integrity, moral courage, and accountability and self-discipline—and a ten-item organizational-image construct. Data were analyzed with SPSS using descriptive statistics, Cronbach’s alpha, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression. Respondents reported high levels of integrity (M = 3.53, SD = 0.86), moral courage (M = 3.77, SD = 0.849), accountability and self-discipline (M = 3.60, SD = 0.803), and organizational image (M = 3.92, SD = 0.55). Each leadership dimension correlated positively and significantly with organizational image: integrity (r = .579, p < .001), moral courage (r = .360, p = .008), and accountability and self-discipline (r = .437, p < .001). The reported regression model was significant (F = 8.646, p < .001), while the individual coefficients for the three dimensions were not statistically significant at the .05 level. The findings indicate that values-oriented leadership is associated with a favorable organizational image, although the dimensions do not explain unique variance when entered together. The study recommends fair and competence-based task allocation, consistent accountability, wider employee participation in decisions, clearer communication of the Directorate’s vision, and deliberate management of service users’ impressions.