Leadership Development: By Sharpening Others, We Sharpen Ourselves

“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17, NIV).

Recent Gallup research shows management-level engagement has dropped 27%, driven by burnout, AI disruption, and shifting expectations. Disengaged leaders weaken the team. Productivity dips. Customers are less satisfied. Work is more difficult – callouts more frequent.

Leadership development when done well is a practical solution. By “done well” I mean the type of program that doesn’t just reside in classes but is woven into the fabric of the workplace.

Good programs reinforce the mission, vision, and core values. They are designed to clarify roles, make connections among co-workers, drive purpose and progress; all these things are key drivers of engagement.

In leadership development programs done well, mentors are present and encouragement is modeled.

Progress in career path, skill development, and leadership are tracked, discussed, and clearly communicated, and everyone knows where they stand.

Leadership development programs strengthen both the teacher and the learner—leaders who develop others become more effective themselves. And that, Gallup tells us, creates a cascade effect throughout the entire organization, team or crew.   

Keep growing leaders. Keep growing YOU.
~Jeff