Shared leadership is emerging as a crucial factor in the success and resilience of small towns across Iowa, as demonstrated by a survey of 10,000 residents from 91 communities. The study highlights the benefits of shared leadership (where decision-making is distributed and leaders actively involve residents) as opposed to closed leadership, which relies on a select few individuals making unilateral decisions. Communities that embrace shared leadership tend to be more effective, trustworthy, and ultimately stronger economically.
“Leadership is critical in identifying local needs, getting citizens and stakeholders involved, and developing an action plan to address those needs. . . Good leaders energize local organizations and residents to take action. . . If rural communities are to survive and thrive in the 21st century, it will require innovative and entrepreneurial solutions that involve the entire community. ”
Shared vs. Closed Leadership
The research identifies 11 towns with strong shared leadership and 10 with dominant closed leadership. While most communities fall somewhere in between, the differences in outcomes are stark. Shared leadership towns benefit from leaders who are open to new ideas, work collaboratively, and build trust among residents. As a result, these communities experience greater engagement, higher-quality local services, and a more welcoming atmosphere for newcomers. In contrast, closed leadership towns often struggle with exclusivity, lack of trust, and resistance to change.
Leadership Type Impacts Quality of Public Services
One of the most striking findings is the impact of leadership style on public services. Residents in shared leadership towns rate local government services, schools, childcare, and housing quality significantly higher than those in closed leadership towns. Roads, water, and sewer systems receive 24% higher ratings in shared leadership communities. While fire and emergency services are generally rated well across all towns, shared leadership communities still report slightly better experiences. However, leadership style has minimal impact on healthcare and senior services, as these are often managed by private organizations or external funding sources.
Beyond infrastructure and services, shared leadership fosters a more engaged and trusting population. Residents in these towns express higher confidence in their local government, with a 28% increase in trust compared to closed leadership towns. They believe community organizations work for everyone rather than catering to elites, and they feel more welcomed into leadership roles. These communities also exhibit stronger social cohesion, with residents describing their towns as friendly, well-maintained, and open to new ideas.
The demographic and economic composition of shared leadership towns further reinforces their advantages. These communities are growing, attracting young families and maintaining a stable workforce. In contrast, closed leadership towns experience population decline, with aging demographics and fewer opportunities for younger residents. The research suggests that fostering shared leadership can create more vibrant, forward-thinking communities that are better positioned for long-term success. For Iowa’s small towns to thrive, adopting inclusive, participatory leadership styles is not just beneficial—it is essential.
The research suggests that fostering shared leadership can create more vibrant, forward-thinking communities that are better positioned for long-term success.
The article concludes with a self-assessment tool to identify the type of leader you are. To read the full article, please click here.
