Leaders are those who have a large number of followers. Leaders are those who have the ability to compel others to follow them. This skill set can be developed in the same way that any other skill is — with guidance and practice. Developmental relationships, planned instruction, action-learning, group-dynamic games, and, of course, practice are all common leadership development methods for both directed and experiential learning.
A great leader sets a good example. An experienced guide can be beneficial when learning any new role. A developmental relationship is a popular strategy in leadership development. This can be defined as a relationship in which one person provides advice to another. This service is available for a fee from life or career coaches.
There are also mentors, who are people in higher positions who help a less senior colleague advance. Mentorship is frequently free and informal, but it can also be provided in a more structured manner as part of training programs. A mentorship can benefit both parties involved in terms of leadership development. The mentor shows off his or her leadership and inspiring abilities, while the learner, or apprentice, gains new knowledge.
This type of directed learning is available in a variety of settings, not just one-on-one. People can also be taught how to lead in groups. Motivational speakers’ lectures, structured curriculums, and seminars tailored to specific organizational concerns are all common methods for leadership development. However, when theory is linked to practice through some form of experiential learning, all types of instruction tend to work better.
“Action-learning” refers to leadership development that occurs as a result of completing a work-related task that accomplishes a specific goal. Employees are frequently tested or trained giving them particularly difficult assignments, such as those found on the other side of a promotion. Some workers, however, may not be able to reflect productively on the process or on their own learning and behavior in such a goal-oriented environment.
Group dynamic games have become increasingly popular as an alternative. They’re designed to be a fun way to reflect on one’s own behaviors as a team member and leader. These games can be as simple as putting a puzzle together or as difficult as an advanced ropes course. The latter is an obstacle course with complicated structures, climbing harnesses, and ropes.
Externally, such as a boss or a parent, these methods of leadership development can be implemented. Good leadership development, on the other hand, requires some self-motivation. To be a good leader, one must constantly seek out and learn to stick with practice projects in a variety of contexts. Self-discipline is perhaps the most important skill for a leader, as it can foster the entire set. If someone can effectively lead themselves, they are likely to be able to lead others.