A quantitative study on retaining leadership talent within a naval aviation squadron

The purpose of this study was to determine the extent to which leadership behavior, which includes organizational policies and practices, influences the decision of Navy pilots to reenlist in the service at the end of their active duty service obligation date. Twenty-four questions on the Total Quality Leadership Survey used for the study were derived from the Total Quality Implementation Survey developed by the Navy Personnel Research and Development Center. The participants were 33 Navy officers assigned to Helicopter Combat Squadron Four (HC-4) stationed in Norfolk, Virginia. The results showed generally positive perceptions of Navy leadership. However, improvement is warranted in policies related to rewards and incentives and to support for the families of Navy personnel. The data analysis results revealed that leadership behavior relates to Total Quality Leadership practices and personnel retention to a very low degree. The data also revealed that sailors will stay if the Navy provides reasonable rewards and incentives to stay in the Navy. Additionally, sailors are more willing to stay if the Navy can provide strong support for their families.