Efficacy evaluation of a leadership development assessment centre for managers

Abstract

This study evaluated the efficacy of a leadership development intervention using an assessment centre approach. Participants were 72 managers and peer workers (50%) with a steel manufacturing organisation from the Gauteng province of South Africa (females = 17% and males = 83%). A randomised group design was used to evaluate the programme. The intervention involved a leadership development assessment centre which included simulations to develop a leader. Pre-post intervention data were collected using the New Leadership Behaviour Inventory – Version 2 (LBI - 2). The results indicate that the leadership development intervention was effective in developing the key competencies of a leader. The most significant increase was found between the pre- and post-test for the competency, and articulating vision. Leaders should have a vision for themselves and the company and should share a dream and direction which their subordinates and peers wish to share and follow.