In the food system, leadership is vital due to the numerous external risks agriculture faces. From unpredictable weather to market fluctuations, effective leaders are essential. However, there remains a lack of tailored leadership development for food system professionals. By providing practical leadership skills for agricultural challenges, it is possible to enhance resilience and drive sustainable growth. The results below are from a study I conducted with several colleagues at the University of Florida.
Study Insights:
Food system opinion leaders show less optimism and risk-taking than expected.
These findings challenge traditional ideas about leadership in the food system community.
Knowledgeable opinion leaders tend to be more conservative in their attitudes.
Improving Engagement:
Customize communication strategies to match the pragmatic outlook of food system opinion leaders.
Highlight lower-risk options in proposed initiatives to gain support.
Craft messages that respect the cautious nature of knowledgeable opinion leaders.
Improving Food System Leadership Development Programs:
Include training on optimism and risk-taking in food system leadership programs.
Expand the influence of food system leaders beyond industry boundaries.
Offer specialized training to help leaders balance caution with effective leadership.
Enhancing Future Initiatives:
Adapt recruitment and program structures based on food system opinion leader characteristics - who is at the table and why?
Keep researching food system opinion leader traits for better leadership programs - what programs attract what audiences?
Collaborate with industry partners to implement tailored leadership initiatives - who else can help provide a unique perspective?
I've included a version of the research manuscript below if you'd like to learn more. Join the conversation by sharing your thoughts and feedback in the comments below.
Lamm, K. W., Lamm, A. J., & Carter, H. S. (2014). Opinion leadership development: context and audience characteristics count. Journal of Agricultural Education, 55(2), 91-105. https://doi.org/10.5032/jae.2014.02091
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