When Is Leadership Development Most Valuable?
Developing people is an important part of being a leader. However, many leaders find it hard to decide how to invest their time and resources due to other priorities and limited resources. That’s why having a plan for when to focus on leadership development is essential for getting the best results for both employees and the organization.
We’ve worked with talented people worldwide to learn what it takes to lead change, align strategies, influence others, communicate well, and manage relationships within the organization. Using our research and experience, we help individuals and organizations figure out when leadership development is most beneficial.
Here, we highlight the situations when personalized leadership development is worth investing in, helping individuals develop the mindsets, skills, and capabilities needed to succeed now and prepare for future challenges.
The Best Times for Leadership Development
Leadership development can take many forms. There’s more leadership content available than ever before for everyone in various roles within an organization. Sometimes, a quick workshop or short course is all someone needs to improve.
But when is it worth investing in a more focused and transformational leadership program? Here are five situations where leadership development is particularly valuable:
During a Big Career Transition
A significant career change is a good time to assess skills and get support for success. The first few months to a year in a new role are full of chances to gain experience, whether starting a new job, joining a new team, or taking on new responsibilities. Becoming a first-time manager, for example, is a major milestone often faced without proper tools or strategies. Adding new responsibilities, like stepping in as a project manager after a resignation, may also require learning new skills. Investing in leadership development during this time helps individuals understand that new roles need new skills and perspectives.During Significant Change in the Organization
Changes such as mergers or reorganizations require new thinking and actions. Leaders must adapt to these changes and guide others in adjusting. This might involve learning new skills or behaviors to manage shifting priorities or competition. A leadership program can help individuals understand the challenges brought by organizational change and develop effective strategies.To Prepare High Potentials for the Next Step
When someone is performing well and ready for growth, it’s a great time for leadership development. Preparing individuals for their next step while they are successfully working in their current role allows them to gain new experiences and learn necessary skills. High potentials often expect more support and investment, so it’s crucial to assess their strengths and weaknesses. A leadership program can help them prepare for future roles within the organization.When Someone Shows Signs of Derailment
Strong performers may occasionally struggle and need support to get back on track. Warning signs include being passed over for promotion, having trouble working with others, or struggling in areas where they usually excel. Research shows that issues in interpersonal relationships, team leadership, adaptability, and achieving goals can increase the risk of derailment. A leadership program can help identify these issues and provide guidance to mitigate weaknesses, potentially salvaging a promising career.To Retain and Engage High-Value Employees
Learning and growth opportunities are crucial for employee engagement and retention. A lack of support can lead employees to leave. Leaders at all levels want recognition and the chance to gain new skills. Providing leadership development meets these expectations and helps employees feel valued. Additionally, employees need a space to discuss their leadership challenges, helping them see ways to grow and become more energized about their work. Research shows that a majority of younger workers value professional development. Offering leadership programs empowers employees and is an investment in their future.
A Final Word on the Best Times for Leadership Development
For leaders and organizations considering personalized leadership programs, open-enrollment leadership programs can provide valuable development opportunities. Investing in leadership training can positively impact the entire organization, boosting engagement, retention, and overall return on investment.
