(2 minute read)
In most regions of Australia, individuals learning to drive will need to develop the knowledge and skills that will equip them to travel safely on our roads alongside other motorists.
These learner drivers are denoted by ‘L’ plates displayed on the outside of their vehicle, making it clear to other motorists that this driver is still developing their competencies, and to be wary and patient when traveling nearby.
In the instance of the learner driver, it is the role of the dedicated, and responsible licensed driver accompanying them to provide the tips, advice and knowledge to assist their ongoing development.
In many established organisations and companies, there is a process for the development of emerging leaders within the business. While companies don’t issue any ‘L’ plates as such, they should provide the developing leader with an experienced and responsible leader/coach/mentor to assist the ongoing development of these valued individuals.
In addition to the support and guidance provided by the experienced leader/coach, here are 3 tips we believe can assist emerging leaders in their development.
- Adopt a Leadership Style that Supports your Team Members. There are many styles of leadership, and developing leaders should be introduced to these, including which style can prove most suitable in select situations. As there is no one style which suits all team members, leaders should be encouraged to read-up on Situational Leadership as a flexible and adaptive style.
- Remain Curious – forever the student! New and emerging leaders usually haven’t had much actual leadership development prior to their advancement or promotion. Therefore, we encourage them to become students of the role, and to read and consume content based around this extremely broad theme of leadership.
- Ask Questions and Seek Support. ‘Alone we can go faster; Together we can go further.’ There are many individuals – often within the same organisation – who have experienced the highs and lows of leadership, and who can provide insights, tips and advice on how to approach each of the challenges the new leader may face in their role. Seeking their counsel (advice) – wherever and whenever – is a wise move.
We’ve limited these tips to just 3, as research and experience remind us that it’s best to narrow our focus when we are developing any new competency.