In the past, leadership development in companies meant each employee who had been promoted to the role of team leader or manager was sent on compulsory training focused on leadership skills. External trainers or internal HR staff provided various theoretical information, combined with several practical exercises. Then it was time for the new leaders to start work and no further development took place.
The main problem with this approach is that people will develop only if they want to. They need motivation, which requires the possibility of being responsible for their own development. So how can you take control of the development of your own leadership skills? The following recommendations appeared on humancapitalleague.com.
1. Do not wait for formal training
Most leadership models are so complex and theoretical that they cannot help you to be successful in your company. Do not wait for somebody to train you. Rather look around yourself and find respected leaders who may inspire you.
2. Ask for feedback
Do not wait until the annual performance evaluation. Actively ask your co-workers where you are making mistakes so you can set things right in good time.
3. Create your own development plan
Do not wait for HR or your boss to find something for you. Just browse the internet and you will find a variety of templates.
4. Find a training that interest you
Do not wait until your company sends you on a training course. Find several training programmes that match your development plan and ask your superiors for approval. Try to ask your employer to cover the training costs at least partially.
5. Find a coach
Coaching is very popular today and many companies already offer it to more employees than just executives. Give it a try. Asking your superiors will not cost you anything. Alternatively, you can find a personal coach yourself.
6. Look for a job with development opportunities
If you have the chance, choose tasks and work opportunities which will allow you to learn something new and develop. Do not accept only those jobs you already know how to perform.
7. Find a mentor
Even in this case, do not wait to be assigned one. Just look around yourself or use the LinkedIn social network and ask people who inspire you to become your mentors.
8. Read and watch
Look for books on leadership, read professional websites, get inspired by TED talks. More tips on interesting literature can also be found in our Books section here.
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