THE INTERNATIONAL CHILD AND YOUTH CARE NETWORK
            Issue 39  •  April 2002

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ADMINISTRATORS

A Leadership Test

Hey, here's something: an interactive test for anyone who plays a leadership role — in an agency or team — ten sections, three questions in each, rate yourself on your leadership style, and when you have finished, hit the “Score Test” button!
 

For each of the statements below, choose the phrase in the box alongside which best describes your attitudes and practice as a leader in your team or program. In each case you can choose between “Not often”, “Quite often” and “Always” ...
Section A
I am able to lead others by demonstrating my own skills

I avoid using my power to enforce decisions or resolve differences
My leadership position is based on my conceptual knowledge

 

 

Section B
I spend time thinking about what we do — and what we could be doing
Our organisation’s practice reflects current thinking in the field
I have a good grasp of the spirit and goals of political developments in my field

 



Section C
I avoid routine for routine’s sake
Our team questions Its motivations and practice from day to day
I am not afraid to introduce change or go along with change

 

 
Section D
I set a good example by my own work ethic
Colleagues and children know me as quick to participate, help and support
I contribute much of my own skills and interests to the daily activity timetable



 

Section E
Staff would agree that I make decisions after consulting with others
I have good knowledge of what is going on in my organisation
Colleagues feel that I listen carefully to the other person’s point of view

 

 

Section F
Staff feel well-informed, rather than me keeping information to myself
I can communicate both positive and negative messages effectively
Our team reports good openness and cohesiveness in the organisation

 

 

Section G
Staff benefit from new things I am able to share with them
I look for ways to add to my skills and qualifications

I am constantly stimulated by and learn new things from my practice

 

 

Section H
Colleagues or children would agree that I let them try their own solutions
I am able to take personal responsibility for trying out new approaches

I believe people benefit from challenge or change as much as from consistency

 

 

Section I
I avoid "quick-fix" solutions which undermine long-term, sustainable gains
Our organlsation has a clear and understood set of values
My practice is characterised by respect — at all levels of our service

 

 

Section J
I believe strongly in the value and potential of what I do
I think all children and youth and staff have the capacity of chanqe and grow
Most of the staff and clients in our organisation will probably do well this year

 

 

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