Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2023
Publication Title
International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management
Volume
35
Issue
11
First Page
3825
Last Page
3843
ISSN
1757-1049
DOI
doi.org/10.1108/IJCHM-10-2022-1252
Keywords
Leadership Inclusion Theory; inclusion; diversity; equity; hospitality theory; underrepresented groups
Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to develop a theory that explains how organizations can create a more inclusive atmosphere on the individual, organizational, and societal levels. The consequences of an inclusive environment were subsequently developed and explored.
Design/methodology/approach: Constructivist grounded theory methods were used to collect and analyze data from interviews with 20 hotel executives and their company websites.
Findings: The findings produced a theoretical framework for inclusion in hotel leadership, leadership inclusion theory. Leadership inclusion theory states organizations must address individual differences, organizational policies and culture, and societal norms to develop an inclusive environment. Equity follows inclusion as the value for individual differences makes equitable treatment easier. Finally, diversity increases through increased inclusion and equity.
Practical implications: Leadership inclusion theory describes steps for managers to take to develop an inclusive environment, establish equitable practices, and increase diversity within an organization.
Social implications: Leadership inclusion theory highlights several unintended exclusion practices and generational attitudes that are common among organizations. By making conscious efforts, managers can take deliberate actions to establish a perceived environment of equality.
Originality/value: Leadership inclusion theory is a seminal theory-building effort grounded in hospitality. It explains the when and why of several phenomena related to inequality in the hotel industry and how to overcome such imbalances.
Rights
CC BY-NC 4.0
Recommended Citation
Russen, Michelle; Dawson, Mary; Madera, Juan M.; Kitterlin-Lynch, Miranda; and Abbott, Jéanna L., "Leadership Inclusion Theory: A grounded theory study on hotel executives" (2023). Marketing Faculty Publications. 6.
https://scholarworks.lib.csusb.edu/mktg-publications/6
