Research

 

 

 

 

 

What creates great leaders? What doesn’t?Zenger Folkman’s research identified a number of previously undeveloped strategies for creating great leaders, as well as highlighting ineffective strategies. For example, orga­nizations commonly use 360 degree feedback programs to help managers identify their weakest points, with the idea that once these areas are identified, they can be strengthened.

“Lack of weakness” vs. strength.Zenger Folkman’s research revealed that “lack of weakness” was not a distinguishing feature of the best leaders. Instead, great leaders posses a few profound strengths. They use these strengths to great advantage in the organization. In contrast, mediocre leaders were distinguished by their lack of strengths, not by their possession of a few deficiencies.

Strength in small numbers. A major discovery from the research was that great strength in a relatively small number of competencies catapults a person into the top tier of leadership. As a result, Zenger Folkman’s approach to leadership development is to identify strengths in individuals, and to build on those strengths.

Building on strength. While many organizations are focused on identifying defects and trying to fix them, very few have seriously considered questions such as “how do I get better at something I’m already good at?” Zenger Folkman’s expertise lies in its unique approach to helping leaders build upon their strengths with a pro­gram developed through research and study.