A conscious leadership competency framework for leadership training

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to propose a conscious leadership competency framework to be used in business training as well as in managerial study programs. Design/methodology/approach First, using literature review, the current state of knowledge in conscious leadership competency frameworks was examined. Subsequently, a framework analysis on a specific topical book was conducted to find competencies that determine a conscious leader. The output of this analysis was compared with a comprehensive leadership competency framework to propose a conscious leadership competency framework. This conscious leadership competency framework was then verified in interviews with conscious leaders. Findings Until now, a conscious leadership competency framework has not been proposed. Yet, there are competencies specific to conscious leaders that are not included in existing leadership competency frameworks. A new conscious leadership competency framework including possible ways of how to train and develop the conscious leadership competencies is suggested for future discussion. Research limitations/implications Research limitations are discussed in this paper. More research in this area and further development of the conscious leadership competency framework are suggested. Practical implications The proposed conscious leadership competency framework can be further discussed and developed, therefore becoming an effective tool for companies as well as educational institutions. Social implications More consciousness in leadership will help tackle many current societal challenges. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the proposed conscious leadership competency framework is the first of its kind.