What are some common executive leadership development program models?

1 Customized Programs

Customized programs are tailored to the specific context, culture, and challenges of a particular organization or industry. They are usually delivered by external consultants or faculty who work closely with the organization to design and deliver a program that meets its strategic objectives and learning outcomes. Customized programs can be more relevant, engaging, and impactful for the participants, as they address their real-world issues and opportunities. However, customized programs can also be more costly, time-consuming, and complex to plan and implement, as they require more collaboration, coordination, and evaluation between the organization and the provider.

2 Open-Enrollment Programs

Open-enrollment programs are offered by universities, business schools, or other institutions that accept applications from individual executives or groups of executives from different organizations or industries. They are usually based on a predefined curriculum that covers general topics and skills related to leadership, such as strategy, innovation, communication, or ethics. Open-enrollment programs can be more accessible, affordable, and flexible for the participants, as they can choose from a variety of options and schedules that suit their needs and interests. However, open-enrollment programs can also be less customized, interactive, and supportive for the participants, as they may not address their specific challenges and goals, or provide enough feedback and follow-up.

3 Action Learning Programs

Action learning programs are based on the principle of learning by doing, where the participants work on real projects or problems that are relevant to their organizations or industries. They are usually facilitated by coaches or mentors who guide the participants through a cycle of action, reflection, feedback, and learning. Action learning programs can be more experiential, collaborative, and transformative for the participants, as they apply their learning to their practice, share their insights and experiences with others, and create tangible results and value for their organizations. However, action learning programs can also be more demanding, risky, and ambiguous for the participants, as they require more commitment, responsibility, and adaptability to deal with complex and dynamic situations.

4 Online Programs

Online programs are delivered through digital platforms or tools that enable the participants to access the content and interact with the instructors and peers remotely. They are usually composed of a combination of synchronous and asynchronous elements, such as webinars, videos, podcasts, quizzes, forums, or chats. Online programs can be more convenient, scalable, and diverse for the participants, as they can learn at their own pace, place, and time, and connect with people from different backgrounds and locations. However, online programs can also be more challenging, isolating, and distracting for the participants, as they may face technical issues, lack of engagement, or competing priorities.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?