Leadership Behaviors at Air War College
Abstract
As the level of job responsibility increases, leaders may need to emphasize different leadership behaviors (Jacobs and Jacques, 1987). These behaviors tend to be hierarchical, with different behaviors needed at the direct, organizational, and strategic levels (Yukl, 1992). Is the same true in the Air Force? The purpose of this investigation is to determine the critical hierarchical leadership behaviors required at the senior level of responsibility in the United States Air Force (USAF). A sample of Air War College Students were administered a survey based on Yukl s Managerial Practices Survey (MPS). Each officer was asked to rate the importance of 11 different behaviors to their most recent job. The behaviors included informing, consulting and delegating, planning and organizing, problem solving, clarifying roles and objectives, monitoring operations, motivating, recognizing and rewarding, supporting and mentoring, managing conflict and team building, and networking. The three most important behaviors identified for Air War College students reflecting on their most recent job were planning (M=4.2), informing (M=4.6), and problem solving (M=4.1). Least important was networking (M=3.6). With these behaviors identified, what to groom and mentor in future strategic leaders becomes evident. Additionally, professional military education can be tailored to focus on those critical behaviors for effective leadership.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA398300
Entities
People
- Lista M. Benson
Organizations
- Air Command and Staff College