Juhtivust

Juhtivust is an Estonian term used in management discourse to denote the capacity for leadership—the set of qualities and abilities that enable a person or an organization to lead effectively. It encompasses personal leadership style, decision-making, strategic influence, and the ability to mobilize others toward shared goals. In practice, juhtivust is viewed as both a personal attribute and a systemic one, shaping how leaders act and how organizational processes support or impede leadership.

Etymology and scope: The word combines juht (leader) with a nominalizing suffix to form an abstract noun. Juhtivust is closely related to concepts such as leadership and leadership capacity, but it emphasizes the evaluative qualities and developmental potential that characterize effective leadership in real-world contexts.

Usage and assessment: In Estonian human resources and strategy literature, juhtivust is used to frame leadership development and competency models. It is commonly discussed in relation to defined leadership competencies, performance assessments, and development plans. Organizations may gauge juhtivust through feedback mechanisms such as 360-degree reviews, as well as indicators like employee engagement, turnover, and change readiness.

Significance and limitations: Proponents argue that strengthening juhtivust improves strategic clarity, team motivation, and organizational adaptability. Critics note that the term can be vague without clear criteria or measurement. Juhtivust intersects with broader topics of leadership, management style, and organizational culture, and its practical value depends on explicit definitions and concrete development activities.

See also: leadership; management; Estonian management terms.