Working Leadership
Do I need to be teaching leadership skills at work?
I was fortunate to learn a great deal about leadership, growing up playing sports, being involved in Scouts, and participating in school leadership roles. As I moved into my career many of those skills learned earlier in life became applicable and valuable as I grew in my leadership responsibilities. But there is always so much more to learn as a leader, leadership learning should never stop. Leadership is a work in progress.
In the dynamic realm of modern workplaces, the question of whether to teach leadership skills is more relevant than ever. Industry success often hinges on the leadership qualities of our front line rather than those at the top of the organizational chart. As David Green, founder of Hobby Lobby said, “The number one reason for our success is people. Our people are the engine that drives our business forward.” Green’s insight underscores the invaluable role of leadership in cultivating a thriving organizational culture to empower individuals to contribute their best.
It is important to design a leadership development plan that is clear in its intention to improve the personal and professional lives of each employee. Dan Cathy, CEO of Chick-fil-A, once remarked, “Leadership is not about being in charge. It’s about taking care of those in your charge.” This sentiment underscores the essence of leadership as a service-oriented endeavor, emphasizing the importance of nurturing leaders at every level of an organization.
By incorporating leadership development initiatives into the fabric of workplace culture, organizations can develop new leaders, create important levels of ownership, and produce great problem solvers. In doing so, leaders pave the way for a future where leadership is not just a title, but a collective responsibility embraced by all. Yes, teach about leadership, you will be amazed at the transformation of your team.
Keep cultivating your greatness.
Jeff
