A survey into leadership competency has revealed that only 14% of leaders are influential, despite over 85% being ranked as competent leaders.
Created by Judith Germain, the survey data was collected from leaders across a variety of sectors and countries. The survey included a series of multiple choice questions designed to measure influence based on 4 key categories: capability, decisiveness, power and impact. After completing the survey, respondents received a personalised report which provided them with their current score for each of these core leadership areas.
The results of respondents who completed the survey before 1st May 2023 revealed that of the 86% who were found to be competent leaders, only 14% were scored as influential, with respondents struggling the most with demonstrating impact.
This was of particular note to the survey’s creator Judith Germain, a leading authority on Maverick Leadership, who believes that having high impact is a necessary leadership prerequisite for effectively influencing and inspiring others, as well as driving positive change.
“Having high impact as a leader is critical if they want to effectively lead and serve the needs of the organisation and its members. It helps to foster a positive and productive work environment, which can improve morale and increase productivity. In addition, high impact leaders are often seen as role models and can inspire others to be their best selves and to achieve their full potential,”explains Judith.
Judith reveals that high impact leaders often have strong interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. They are able to set clear goals and direction, and to motivate and empower others to work towards these goals. The ability to make sound decisions and to effectively communicate and collaborate with others is also key.
The first step to becoming a high impact leader, advises Judith, is recognising their current position, where their strengths and weaknesses are, and what steps they need to take to move to the next level.
“All influential leaders have the ability to influence and create effective impact and it’s important to be aware of their starting position, it will be easier to make the changes needed to improve their leadership. The insights revealed in this survey are key to helping leaders move from having a minimal executive or leadership presence to being a sought-after expert in their field,” explains Judith.
The survey remains open, with the next analysis due to take place in May 2024. Leaders interested in participating in the survey and receiving their personalised scorecard results can visit – https://amplifyyourinfluence.scoreapp.com