CEOs recognize the need for a systemic approach that develops our future leaders. In the past, we've typically worked under the assumption that our leaders simply needed to learn through experience—and that experience is selling. But in our rapidly changing and competitive industry, this approach no longer works. We must think and work strategically and find ways to teach our future leaders to do the same.
So how do you teach an industry so focused on sales volume to think strategically? It's a two-pronged approach of theory and application that offers both leadership training and development. And we need both.
The theory comes from outside sources in a more institutionalized learning structure. Development comes from experience that connects the theory to practical application. We have to marry these two forms to train emerging leaders who not only think strategically, but also execute consistently.
Strategic theory may come in many forms. Successful CEOs have a thirst for knowledge beyond the bounds of our industry. They learn about the successes and challenges of the best leaders to maintain a competitive edge. Books, management courses, MBA programs and a variety of leadership training clinics are accessed.
The application piece of strategy to develop our future leaders requires the most effort from the existing C-suite, yet perhaps may cost the least to execute. A mentoring program to facilitate the transfer of internal knowledge, involvement of emerging leaders in the strategic planning process, executive coaching and on-the-job opportunities for strategic decision-making are all great ways to improve the development of strategic thinkers.
Think of your emerging leaders as your children (and perhaps some of them actually are). They will need a school to give them knowledge and perspective. They need your constant guidance, increased responsibilities and opportunities to fail (and learn) in order to develop those critical thinking skills.
It takes time, investment and commitment to develop the strategic thinking skills in our emerging leaders. If you want your organization to flourish in the years ahead, you must plan for the training and development of your future leaders today.
© Touchpoint Markets, All Rights Reserved. Request academic re-use from www.copyright.com. All other uses, submit a request to TMSalesOperations@arc-network.com. For more information visit Asset & Logo Licensing.