2.2.8 Leatherman Leadership Questionnaire (LLQ)
Purpose
The Leatherman Leadership Questionnaire (LLQ) is designed to measure an individual’s knowledge of effective leadership behavior. This multiple-choice tool uses 339 items to assess understanding and awareness of supervisory leadership skills and behaviors necessary for effective leadership performance.
The LLQ is for individuals in or aspiring to managerial, supervisory, or leadership roles within organizations. This may include managers, team leaders, supervisors, executives, and other leadership positions. The results of the LLQ can be used by organizations, HR departments, and leadership development professionals. Organizations use this instrument for selection purposes to evaluate potential leaders’ knowledge of supervisory leadership skills. It is also used for feedback purposes, helping individuals identify areas of strength and areas for development in leadership knowledge.
Description
Developed as part of Richard W. Leatherman’s doctoral dissertation, the LLQ tests leadership knowledge across 27 key skill areas. Katkovsky (1992) indicated some limitations of the LLQ, reporting high overall scores in a few leadership factors and low scores in other factors. Thomas, A. D. (1998) reported a positive correlation among different gender groups. Responding to 339 items can be overwhelming to test takers, which may increase errors and biases.
Access
The LLQ is accessible via academic journals and research databases, including in the relevant articles listed in the references section. Prior to usage, permission from the authors or copyright holders may be necessary. Contact the authors directly or consult the articles for more information on the availability and permissions.
References
Leatherman, R.W. (1992). Leatherman leadership questionnaire: Self-development action planner (2nd ed.). International Training Consultants, Inc.
Katkovsky, W. (1992). Review of the Leatherman Leadership Questionnaire. In J. J. Kramer & J. C. Conoley (Eds.). The eleventh mental measurements yearbook (pp. 465–466). Buros Institute of Mental Measurements.
Thomas, A. D. (1998). The measurement of leadership: The construct validity of the Leatherman Leadership Questionnaire and its subscale correlation with assessment center measures. Widener University.
