Only 4 in 10 Executives and Managers Considered Excellent Leaders, Survey Says

According to the survey of human resource managers from 133 organizations, one-third of executives and managers are “severely lacking in their ability to manage people.”

“Companies need to provide the necessary leadership development coaching to the bottom third of managers and executives to turn around their performance,” said Chris Gay, Senior Vice President and Employee Engagement Practice Leader of Right Management Consultants, in a press release. “But they also need to pay very close attention to the 30% of managers and executives who are in the middle, and work with them toward advancing into excellent leaders, rather than becoming sub-par managers.”

Not surprisingly, communication skills are valued above all others, according to the survey. The ability to communicate a common vision and strategy to employees is the area most in need of improvement. Other areas of improvement are subordinate development, communication skills, and employee motivation.

“It’s notable that communication skills are both the most-desired management trait, and one of the top three areas that need to be improved,” added Gay. “Good executive communication involves more than one’s presentation skills. Just as important are a leader’s ability to listen, recognize, and engage in dialogue with people at all levels of the organization. Knowing how to communicate in a way that encourages commitment and an understanding of how to be successful is vital to being a good manager. This involves understanding how to personally model the business strategy and culture, and tell powerful stories that help translate that strategy into action for each person.”

Also in the survey, 42% of people stated that they were ready to do their boss’ job while 72% believed they would be ready in three to five years.