Leadership Research
High-performing leaders are distinguished by two qualities – their ability to interact effectively with other people and their ability to think tactically and strategically. A multinational study by dtaWORLDWIDE has found that, on average, managers are performing below the level that characterises high-performing leaders. The study analysed data from 6,320 managers and over 30,000 of their work colleagues.
Using measures it had developed in previous research, dtaWORLDWIDE examined leaders’ self-perceptions and the perceptions of others in interaction effectiveness and thinking effectiveness. It found that leaders’ average ratings on the two key qualities were both around 70, out of a possible 100. Previous research by dtaWORLDWIDE has shown that to be an effective leader, a score of 80 and above is required.
Ten competencies that make up these two key qualities were measured, including teamwork, win/win negotiating, communicating clearly and positive orientation. The competencies which were assessed as being lowest, by both leaders themselves and their colleagues, were interpersonal flexibility, problem-solving and analysing perceptively.
Malcolm Dawes, Managing Director at dtaWORLDWIDE believes that the low scores are an indicator of the low importance placed on leadership in many businesses. Yet much research exists which suggests that effective leaders will return significantly better results from their people.
For more detail on the research and a copy of the report contact us.