Leadership is one of the most important factors in the success of an organization. It is important for these businesses to be aware of emerging trends in leadership development in order to reap the benefits of quality leadership. Without learning adaptability in the ever-changing business world, businesses might fall short on their success.
Leadership development should be utilized at all levels in a company, even at the very top, because there is always room for improvement and change. According to research conducted by Zippia, while 83% of organizations believe it’s important to develop leaders at every level of the company, only 5% of businesses have implemented leadership development at all levels. Below we will discuss a few trends to help businesses improve their leadership and foster an environment that encourages growth.
1. Leading With Empathy
Building an environment where employees feel comfortable and that their ideas are heard is essential in any workplace culture. Showing compassion and support when problems arise creates a feeling of mutual respect and trust which will improve employee morale. Being an open and authentic leader is what drives engagement and productivity in the workplace.
2. Shifting Leadership Styles
Learning to change and adapt is a necessary skill for leaders in any business. Shifting your leadership style to meet the needs of your team helps improve the work environment for everyone. By fostering a culture of collaboration and creativity, employees feel more respected and know that they have a voice in their organization.
It is important for leaders to recognize their own strengths and weaknesses so that they can better adjust their leadership styles. In addition, as their teams grow and change, so might their dynamic; being able to react to change and shift leadership styles is an excellent skill to have.
3. Focusing on Professional Development
Investing in employees is not only key to staying competitive, but to creating a more engaged and motivated workforce. It is a show of effective leadership to create opportunities for employees to continue to learn and grow their skills while at work. Providing access to seminars, online courses, and mentorship programs are great ways to expand employee knowledge.
This idea should also be applied to leaders in the workplace. Just because someone has more seniority does not mean that there isn’t more for them to learn. Showing employees that their company leadership is also working to expand their skills helps foster mutual respect.
4. Supporting Diversity & Inclusion
Diversity and inclusion has been a very important trend, and not only when it comes to leadership development. However, any effective diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) strategies in the workplace stem from company leadership. Creating an environment that is welcome to everyone regardless of aspects of their identity such as race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, etc. is essential to overall success.
Implementing effective DEI strategies and providing training is critical in an organization. In addition, it is crucial to lead employees to the same values by emphasizing training programs and anti-discrimination policies.
5. Highlighting Flexible Work
Many businesses have both remote and in-person employees, following new flexible arrangements following the COVID-19 pandemic. This has also led to some companies shifting from traditional 9-5 workdays and giving employees more control over their schedules. Effective leaders should make sure that remote employees have access to necessary resources and have flexible options when they need it.
Making sure that employees that work remotely are still included in workplace culture is essential. Ensure clear lines of communication and access to tools to help keep them engaged and productive.
These trends provide necessary insights into what the workforce needs in current times and in the near future. Embracing these now can help set the groundwork for what is to come later in leadership development. Learning to adapt and to welcome changes that will help improve business success is essential in effective leadership.
Are you looking for a position in a company that fits your needs and expectations? Sedna Consulting Group has over 15 years of experience in connecting talented individuals to jobs that help highlight their strengths in the workplace. Send us a message on LinkedIn or Instagram to chat with one of our professionals and start your journey with us.
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