This study investigated the organizational effects of a facet of administrative leadership termed professional leadership behavior (PLB)--defined as the concern for the improvement of professional staff performance. In addition, selected factors were considered for an association with the respondent's perception of the leadership phenomenon. Sixty-two County Extension Directors (CED) and 205 staff members provided data through mailed questionnaires. This organizational position (CED) was created by the Missouri Extension Division to provide administrative leadership to the staff's local educational endeavors. It was committed to a philosophy which encouraged specialization and provided opportunities for the development of professionalism. PLB was associated with the organizational effects of job performance and career satisfaction. It was concluded that the PLB can enhance the educational performance of professionally oriented staff and that it contributes to the satisfaction which results from the pursuit of an educational career. Findings indicate that the perception of PLB by staff respondents is augmented by the involvement of the professional in decision making, the CED's use of a high level of interpersonal skills, and a social-support climate composed of mutual respect and open communications. (Author/NL)