What comes first – theory or practice?
Purpose This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies. Design/methodology/approach This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context. Findings Should managers take exams to qualify to be leaders? This may sound a little strange, but when one thinks about it, what perhaps is strange is that they do not. At every stage up until they reach the peak, future leaders need to qualify themselves. At school, they take exams like everyone else and do not receive extra marks for exhibiting leadership in math or history. At university, they may perform well in tutor groups and lead the football team, but ultimately they have to pass their exams to graduate. And at the start of their business career, future leaders have to do their inductions, complete all sorts of different training, and probably do an MBA. Practical implications This paper provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world’s leading organizations. Originality/value The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.