Companies cite leadership development as top priority in 2012

Leadership development is seen as a top priority among global corporations, according to a study released this week by consulting firm SHL. In fact, most organizations view leadership training as more important than employee development.

Specifically, more than half of surveyed HR professionals across 32 different countries – 56 percent – pointed to staff retention and leadership development as their top priorities this year, and 70 percent of respondents reported they currently have such plans in place.

“While these organizations aspire to make the best business decisions based on key talent measurement data, many lack the ability to do it effectively,” said David Leigh, CEO of SHL. “So there is a tremendous opportunity for companies worldwide to put their People Intelligence to work to create positive, profitable business outcomes.”

While strong leadership is often seen as a driver of workforce motivation and productivity, it is also effective in developing Lean or Kaizen improvements. However, a separate report released this week by communications firm Ketchum showed decaying public approval of global leaders – not merely in the business world, but in politics, religion and society as a whole.