Leadership development programs in 2019 must adapt to changes in business and leadership. Our challenge is to give today’s leaders the tools, opportunities, and feedback they need to shape the future of our companies. There are lots of things I could write about under that banner. I think the three most important have to do with technology, self-direction, and the team environment.
Leadership Development and Technology In 2019
We’re just learning how we can use technology to make leaders and leadership development more effective. Expect 2019 to be stuffed with new products, incredible promises, and the challenges of the new and different.
Don’t expect final answers yet. We’ll need a few more years before the potential of the new technology gels. Don’t expect things to happen overnight. Follow the advice of futurist Paul Saffo and, “Don’t mistake a clear view for a short distance.â€
Leadership Development and Self-Direction In 2019
When I came up in business, most leadership development activities were directed, controlled, and presented by companies for aspiring leaders. Technology has changed what we expect. When you can search the world of information on your smartphone and find things in minutes without having to consult anyone for permission or advice, aspiring managers expect the same from their learning and leadership development.
Expect 2019 to be filled with aspiring leaders asking for more resources they can use themselves and on their own schedule. Instead of trying to cover all the possible bases yourself, devote efforts to helping aspiring leaders find and use resources.
Leadership Development and The Team Environment In 2019
Since I started out in business, the role of the team leader has changed. Once, it was overseeing work. Today, it’s more coach and environment crafter. In 2019, expect a shift to thinking about a leader first as a team member, and second, as a coordinator and tie-breaker.
Bottom Line
2019 will be an exciting year in leadership development. Pay attention to what technology makes possible, but don’t get seduced by the hype. Instead of trying to do all the planning, help leaders learn to find and use resources that will help them develop. Start thinking about team leaders as team members first.
