At London Business School's Global Leadership Summit 2009, Edelman asked senior leaders about some of the key challenges they face: the role of business in the current climate; the impact of the economic crisis; and successful leadership.
Commenting on the results, Richard Edelman, President & CEO, Edelman, said: "There is strong optimism about the role of business, but today's leaders do foresee economic recovery bringing an unsupportable fiscal burden. Despite today's economic challenges, business leaders see we are beyond a critical point in the crisis: 34% said investment in talent would be their top priority, compared with only 10% cost cutting.
Being a transparent communicator is overwhelmingly seen as the most appropriate style of leadership – and there should be no distinction between external and internal audiences. It is not about being a public figure or humble achiever – it is the middle ground. The key to successful public engagement is continuous conversation in a stakeholder society."
Optimism for role of business is overwhelming
As a business leader, do you feel optimistic about the role of business, both economically and politically?
Government intervention has negative long term side effects
Thinking about the next two years, which of the following, if any, is your biggest macroeconomic concern?
Business leaders are looking forward, beyond the short-term crisis
As a business leader, which of the following approaches would be your top priority in the face of this economic crisis?
Openness and transparency take centre stage – in the middle ground, not as a public figure or humble achiever
Which styles of leadership are most appropriate for a CEO in these challenging times? Please choose one of these that come closest to your recommended leadership style.
About the Survey: This survey was fielded on Monday 29th June 2009 at London Business School's Global Leadership Summit. The sample included 533 senior business leaders, board members, and a small number of students, from 44 countries. The margin of error in this survey is ±4.2% at the 95% level of confidence. The data was collected live using individual respondent handsets and analysed by StrategyOne, Edelman's in-house research partner.