Leadership deficiencies in rapidly changing organizations: multisource feedback as a needs assessment tool – Part I

Purpose – This article aims to report the results of a study concerning the key performance deficiencies found in leaders in rapidly changing organizations. Design/methodology/approach – A sample of 153 middle and front‐line managers from a cross‐section of US manufacturing and service organizations were asked to assemble a multisource feedback (MSF) team consisting of five people who responded to the following question: “What specific things should this individual be working on to become more effective as a leader in their rapidly changing work situation?” In turn, 765 raters rated 153 middle and front‐line managers on their leadership performance deficiencies. Findings – Data analysis indicated the top ten leadership performance deficiencies were: ineffective communication practices, poor time and priority management skills, failing to clarify direction and performance expectations, ineffective interpersonal/teaming skills, inability in handling stress/pressure and staying poised, ineffective coaching/feedback and employee development practices, poor planning skills, ineffective problem‐solving and decision‐making activities, ego issues and disorganization. Originality/value – Based on these data, a series of leadership lessons for individual business leaders, organizations they serve and those responsible for the training and development of leaders are provided.