Setting the stage for Development
In a recent post here I discussed establishing roots as a leader. Here is a brief review of what was shared in that post:
- Leaders need to be in the right environment. Some leaders are better at pioneering opportunities while others are better for "steady state" or settler environments. Putting the right leader in the right environment makes all of the difference.
- Some leaders are very self sufficient while others need a stronger team to help them flourish. Understanding your strengths as a leader is always a best first step so that you know how to surround yourself with complimentary players to make the team successful.
- Understanding your strengths and developmental challenges as a leader is also a key attribute to know. As mentioned in point 2, knowing what environment and skills are the best for your success are important. In addition, understanding how the environment will change as your term progresses is important. Some plants fare better with adverse conditions and so too with leaders.
Carrying forward the analogy with leaders and their roots, it is important to understand that leaders need to be placed in an environment where they can first produce roots, gain experience in appropriate areas before being thrust into the line of fire. Experience is the best teacher, based on research I often lean on from the Center for Creative Leadership (CCL) and new leaders need that exposure to grow and flourish their roots so they can then expand and grow as they become rooted.
The photo above gives a great pictorial example of establishing roots in water before being thrust into the soil. The odds of a plant surviving without first having roots are low and leaders without roots, without experience, are also low.
What are you or your firm doing to help future leaders establish their roots?
Let me know if this is a discussion you would like to have. We have multiple examples where we have worked with leaders who are working on developing their roots and we can do the same for you and your firm.
You can also learn more by going to our website.
Let us know how we can help your crop of future leaders develop their roots.