Leader Humility (Owens & Hekman 9-item)
LeadershipReliability: alpha 0.933 sample items
About this scale
A 9-item measure of leader humility focused on three behaviours: acknowledging personal limits, showcasing followers' strengths, and modelling teachability. Distinct from broader humility traits.
Sample item(s)
“My leader actively seeks feedback, even if it is critical”
“My leader admits when he/she does not know how to do something”
“My leader takes notice of others' strengths”
Reliability
Reported internal consistency: alpha 0.93. As a rule of thumb, Cronbach’s α ≥ .70 is considered acceptable, ≥ .80 good, and ≥ .90 excellent for established measures.
Notes
Most cited leader-humility measure.
Source & citation
Owens, B. P., & Hekman, D. R. (2012): Modeling how to grow: An inductive examination of humble leader behaviors, contingencies, and outcomes. Academy of Management Journal, Vol. 55, No. 4, pp. 787–818.
Source. Scale details are summarised from the publication cited above. Always consult the original source for the full item set, scoring, and permission to use.
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