In this episode Ally and Dom discuss what makes leadership development programs succeed. Harvard Business Review recently identified which programs worked and why. The study was based on 6 leadership programs where 1000 people participated and their recognition on whether or not they fostered engagement and effectiveness. Ally and Dom breakdown the 7 tips from the study and evaluated which leadership programs failed and which ones succeeded.
The key findings highlighted the need to:
- Focus on whole person growth – a need for less learning about specific tactical skills and more cultivating broad capabilities such as self-awareness and resistance to adapt to ongoing and dynamic changes. Ally noted how the LSI is a tool that shines a light on self-awareness – that being effective at life spills over to work and all areas of your life.
- Provide opportunities for self-reflection and meaning making. What are the main ways leadership offers value to employees? Often allowing staff to take a break from the daily grind and reorientate self, work, and life offers a renewed sense of purpose. Offering a time to reflect on why I am here, and how I show up in is key. Evaluating and synergising wellbeing with effectiveness. Giving employees structured time to reflect on their own self-purpose is crucial.
- Offer targeted programs for employees to support with chronic stress – giving participants a new sense of direction and promotion of happiness. Prioritise leader development in times of acute and chronic stress helps bolster psychological resources and support.
- Not underestimating short and intensive programmes – like a shot of instant vitamin C, this can promote therapeutic mental health and well-being. You can get a lot done in a short amount of time!
- Acknowledge and address psychological barriers to growth – fostering more opportunities and openness to self-improvement. Focus on the ongoing pursuit of self-actualisation.
- Ensure that short term growth leads to sustained and long-term impact. Continuing to keep the learning top of mind. Effective programs have better results when they build on initial results and keep a focus on building long term change.
- Embrace online learning – when remote work becomes the norm. The study found no significant differences in personal growth in online and face-to-face learning.