A GLOBAL leadership study led by researchers at Monash University has found that effective leadership may be simpler than previously believed.
Published in the Journal of Management Studies, the study challenges the prevailing trend of adopting complex, trend-driven leadership styles, instead advocating for a focus on strong leader-follower relationships.
The research, which analysed 12 popular leadership measures across 4000 participants from five countries, reveals that many well-known leadership styles – such as transformational, authentic, and ethical leadership – overlap significantly, raising questions about the need for fragmented, style-specific frameworks.
According to Associate Professor Nathan Eva from the Department of Management at Monash Business School, the study suggests that leadership effectiveness is more about fostering behaviours that build strong relationships with team members than about adopting a complex array of leadership styles.
“Our research shows that the key to effective leadership lies in building trust, collaboration, and positive relationships with your team,” Associate Professor Eva said.
“Rather than following the latest trends, organisations should focus on strengthening leadership behaviours that align with their values and goals.”
The study advocates for a shift in leadership development approaches, urging organisations, leaders, and leadership consultants to prioritise simplicity and consistency in their strategies.
For organisations, the study advises focusing on leadership behaviours that align with organisational values and strategic goals, rather than chasing the latest trends.
For leaders, it emphasises the importance of building strong, trust-based relationships with their teams to enhance both team dynamics and organisational outcomes.
For leadership consultants, the study suggests streamlining programs to focus on a small set of universal behaviours that are proven to drive success.
Co-author Associate Professor Joshua Howard also highlighted the implications of the research.
“This study encourages both researchers and practitioners to rethink leadership training,” he said. “By focusing on the behaviours that matter, we can reduce complexity, improve outcomes, and create more inclusive and resilient workplaces.”
