Validating effective managerial behaviors for the hospitality industry

Purpose: This paper aims to examine the validity of the Managerial Practices Survey (MPS). Despite voluminous work on leadership styles, few studies have examined the specific behaviors of effective leaders in the hospitality industry. Design/methodology/approach: Data were collected from two different samples through surveys to assess the construct validity of the MPS in the hospitality industry. Findings: The proposed four meta-category and 18 component behavior MPS framework fit the data well and both the meta-categories and component behaviors were predictive of leadership effectiveness. Practical implications: While meta-categories may be conceptually and theoretically relevant, component leadership behaviors are more useful for applied uses, such as leadership development. When behaviors are assessed at the component level, leaders can be provided with feedback and coaching on the specific actions they can take to improve their decision-making and problem-solving capabilities and ultimately become more effective leaders. Originality/value: This research provides a validation of the MPS and useful insights for which behaviors are most useful for managers in hospitality contexts.