It has been a very, very full week all focused on my Pilot Study. I completely underestimated many things and have been in over-drive as I reacted to unexpected events. The purpose of the study is to explore the impact of gender on leadership style, in addition to other variables such as age, ethnicity, business unit and tenure. Also, by adopting a mixed methods approach, a 360 leadership style questionnaire and semi-structured interviews, the study aims to contribute an expanded examination of the leadership style of men and women.
The testing and administration of the 360 leadership questionnaire was more complicated than I first thought, and my tight time frames made things more difficult than they needed to be. I am working with a consulting firm that licenses the questionnaire and has a supporting on-line tool to administer the data collection. I had multiple emails and conversations with the firm to get the questionnaire customized and then learn how to use the on-line tool. Also, my decision to input raters on behalf of the leaders made sense to make it easier for participants but added a significant level of input administration for me. Thankfully, 35% of the leaders have agreed to participate in the study and I hope to increase this a bit more with a follow-up email on Monday.
It was a late start at the library today because I played 2 hours of tennis last night. A great deal of fun, my game is actually improving!! I have been at the library for 5 hours and have made good progress. I fine-tuned the Interview Schedule for the semi-structured interviews that I will conduct next week and also began to write the Pilot Study Report. I have a very DRAFT version of half of the paper written and a framework to complete the final half. I also prepared for my meeting with my supervisor which will take place next week. The final thing I completed was a project plan for next week. This is very effective for keeping me on track because there is a lot of detail and process to manage.
Speaking of on track, I am going to sign off for now. My ride home will arrive shortly. I plan to do some groceries and then relax. Look forward to church, some yoga and more relaxing tomorrow as well!