A study led by academics at the University of Sussex, has challenged the conventional narrative of leadership and advises those seeking to reach the top to stay humble.
Dr Elsa Chan, of the University of Sussex Business School, and researchers from the University of Colorado Boulder, and Nanyang Technological University, conducted a survey of 610 leaders across 18 industries and 21 job functions. They examined the relationship between humility, mentoring, status, and promotability, and found that leaders who were most humble had the potential to wield significant influence within their organisations.
The research showed that those demonstrating characteristics of humility – notably being open to feedback, appreciative of others’ strengths and contributions and honest about mistakes – can accrue trust by building strong relationships amongst their colleagues; all of which can be instrumental in advancing careers and gaining influence within their organisations.
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