PERCEIVED LEADERSHIP SKILLS AND TEAM PERFORMANCE OF GRADE 12 HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES STUDENTS AT BESTLINK COLLEGE OF THE PHILIPPINES

Abstract

Leadership skills encompass the abilities and qualities exhibited by individuals in management positions that enable them to effectively guide and motivate a team toward accomplishing shared objectives. According to the Behavioral Theory of Leadership proposed by Robert Blake and Jane Mouton in the 1960s, leadership effectiveness can be developed by understanding and applying specific behavioral patterns or styles. This theory highlights the importance of participative decision-making and fostering team growth by addressing the unique needs of team members. Drawing on this framework, the researchers conducted a study to evaluate the impact of leadership skills on the team performance of Grade 12 Humanities and Social Sciences students at Bestlink College of the Philippines. The research utilized a descriptive-quantitative design. To select participants, cluster sampling was applied as the sampling method for this study. This technique was implemented to ensure that the data collected accurately reflects the larger population. A total of two hundred (200) Grade 12 Humanities and Social Sciences students from Bestlink College of the Philippines comprised the study sample. The researchers gathered information through a survey questionnaire distributed to the respondents. The findings highlight key leadership strategies that improve team performance, focusing on collaboration, empowerment, and verbal communication. The data also reveal common challenges faced by respondents: 163 participants (24.29%) reported difficulties with self-confidence, while 102 (15.20%) identified insufficient feedback as a major issue. Poor communication, which often results in misunderstandings and conflicts, was reported by 149 respondents (22.21%). Additionally, 134 respondents (19.97%) noted that fear of failure hinders risk-taking, and 123 (18.33%) cited lack of motivation as a factor contributing to unfavorable outcomes. This summarizes the various strategies in effective leadership that contribute to improving team performance among Grade 12 Humanities and Social Sciences students at Bestlink College of the Philippines. In light of these results, the researchers propose an action plan designed to strengthen and enhance the leadership skills of the students.