The Korn/Ferry Institute's Q4 "Confidence in Leadership Index" shows rising confidence in corporate leadership globally, an encouraging sign heading into 2010. Several major drivers of confidence reached their 2009 peak in an economy showing signs of recovery.
"The Q4 Confidence in Leadership Index reflects cautious optimism inspired by a steadying labor market and improving economic picture globally," said Ana Dutra, CEO of Korn/Ferry Leadership and Talent Consulting. "It's especially encouraging to see confidence in CEOs and corporate boards has made positive strides in consecutive quarters, because strong leadership at the top of the house influences the entire organization."
The Confidence in Leadership Index asks global executives critical questions that produce metrics for: 1) credibility of leadership, 2) trust of leadership, 3) leadership characteristics and 4) direction of leadership. The survey was fielded by Braun Research, Inc. between November 19-27, 2009.
Highlights of the survey include:
Credibility of Leadership: 71; +2 points
- Leadership credibility increased across all levels of leadership
- Increased in Asia Pacific, Central/South America and Europe; North America declined
Trust of Leadership: 72; No Change
- North America remains most trusting with an index score of 80
- Europe remains most skeptical with an index score of 63
- Central/South America climbed 6 points to 75
Direction of Leadership: 22.6; + 3.5 points
- North America is least optimistic (-4.2), though improved after a low in August (-9.9)
- Central/South America most optimistic (+48.5)
The most important leadership factors are strategic skills and operating skills. Personal and interpersonal skills carry more weight in North America and Europe. Courage and Managing Financial Performance received slightly more emphasis in Central/South America.
For complete survey results visit www.kornferryinstitute.com
