"Undoubtedly, all these characteristics are based on influence, on the figure of the leader as an inspirer and guide. Thus, it can be concluded that Costa Ricans prioritize a more inspirational leadership related to the liberation of talent and oriented to people. It is interesting that the honduran population does not prioritize the capabilities associated with "daring" to "lead" such as challenging authority constructively or making courageous decisions", said Diana Quirós, leader of Analytics -research unit- at CCK Central America.

Expectations 2023

In this research, the participants were asked which attributes they consider should be worked on by the leadership in 2023, and the leaders were asked about their priorities. The latter indicated in the first place to improve their administrative and organizational capacities (44.19%) as well as their knowledge and technical skills (21.57%). While subordinates considered that their bosses and leaders should improve communication (45.75%) and emotional intelligence and empathy (37.25%).

According to leaders, the training needs they expect to solve in 2023 are communication skills for conflict resolution (47.73%) and the generation of constructive criticism and respectful feedback (45.45%).

Subordinates agree with leaders on the importance of communication in conflict resolution (50.48%) and consider that they should also promote clear communication of projects, objectives and indications (43.81%).

"One of the main findings we have found is that, without a doubt, when talking about leadership, leaders and subordinates have different conceptions of what a leader's priorities and key skills should be. Understanding and reconciling the expectations of both parties with the needs of the organization is critical to developing effective leadership. It is important that organizations know their talent well and offer development plans focused on reinforcing the competencies linked to the three essential areas of leadership: unleashing talent, accelerating performance and daring to lead", explained Ivan Carletti, regional leader of Talent Solutions at ManpowerGroup.

Preferred channels of communication for leader-employee interaction

Leaders prefer face-to-face meetings (79.55%), video calls (52.27%), and emails (38.64%). People collaborators prefer face-to-face meetings (79.05%), video calls (35.24%), and the use of WhatsApp (36.19%).

There are also channels that are not preferred by the respondents, in the case of salvadoran leaders these are "Video calls without camera" in chats for internal use (40.91%), instant text messages in chats for internal use (38.64%) and voice messages (34.09%). Employees do not like communication via e-mail (37.14%), printed communication (36.19%), or video calls (29.52%).

The research results compile the opinions of 1,727 people in the region, including team leaders and subordinates. In Honduras, 245 people responded to the digital survey, including 117 people in leadership positions and 128 subordinates.

Translated by: A.M