A
T
A
By
CHIE
HROU
THOUG
Ryan W
VING
GH
HT LEA
illiams
LEA
EMPL
DERSHI
, MAL
DERS
OYE
P PIECE
HIP R
E SUR
Octob
ESU
VEY
er 12,
LTS
S
2007
i
FOREWARD
The purpose of this project is to examine leadership practices, suggest a preferred leadership approach,
examine employee survey practices and identify their relationship. Transformational leadership was
identified as the most effective approach for achieving sustainable organizational results. Transformational
leadership has been tested in a variety of contexts and was shown to meet follower’s expectations of a
leader and has achieved higher levels of organizational performance. (Bass, 1997) To further define
transformational leadership employee engagement and servant leadership were reviewed as possible
applications of transformational leadership. This literature reviewed suggested that effective leaders listen
to followers and seek to understand their point of view when engaging them in the purpose and mission
of their organizations.
Organizational surveys are an effective method for achieving broad based feedback from
employee/followers. The most effective survey practices are those that enable local level decision making.
The literature reviewed suggested that a survey program can have an important part in gaining support
and creating the momentum for change. It would be reasonable to conclude that organizational surveys
can enhance transformational leadership. Further primary research will need to be done to isolate which
aspects of the survey process have the greatest impact on the leader member exchange.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
For the past ten years, I have been involved in designing and administering employee surveys. These
surveys have covered many topics and used varying degrees of processes. At times, I am frustrated with
the lack of change that occurs during survey programs and other times I am amazed at the cultural shift.
The diverse response to the same process led me to s