Improving Agricultural Leadership Outcomes: Better Engagement, Greater Satisfaction

Agricultural leadership development programs are very important for a safe and resilient food system. They equip participants to address a range of complex tasks like managing resources and adapting to critical issues. We were interested in looking at what influences participant satisfaction with such programs. We examined the possible relationship between program directors and program participants based on leader-member exchange (LMX), which looks at how each side trusts and supports the other. In other research this dynamic can influence performance, satisfaction, and other important outcomes. Based on our research we were able to determine whether LMX contributed to overall participant satisfaction.

Key Findings

Strong Director-Participant Relationships: Many participants described respectful, positive interactions with their program directors. These interactions supported a sense of trust and encouraged open communication about program goals.
Demographic Factors: Demographics showed no direct link to satisfaction. This suggests that people from various backgrounds found the program valuable.
Leader-Member Exchange (LMX): The quality of the director-participant relationship emerged as a clear factor in how satisfied participants felt. This finding highlights the importance of personal engagement.

Practical Recommendations

Regularly Assess LMX: Gather data on director-participant relationships at planned intervals. This approach helps reveal when adjustments could enhance the learning environment.
Bring in External Evaluators: Independent evaluations can encourage honest feedback, which helps directors refine methods to better meet participant needs.
Examine Additional Influences: Factors like program content, peer support, or mentorship could also shape participant satisfaction. Adding these measures may capture a fuller picture.
Encourage Ongoing Conversation: Frequent check-ins or feedback sessions can show participants that their opinions matter, creating a more responsive and interactive experience.

Conclusion

Strong director-participant relationships can boost satisfaction and in turn, encourage leadership growth. The importance of a resilient food system is critical, helping to create supportive environments for the next generation of agricultural leaders to develop is an important part of the process. I've included the full manuscript if you would like to read more. Please be sure to share your insights using the Comments below.

Lamm, K. W., & Priest, K. L. (2019). Evaluating the role of leader member exchange in leadership development program satisfaction. Journal of Agricultural Education, 60(3), 1-13. https://doi.org/10.5032/jae.2019.03001