Leadership development is a key aspect of HR development that aims to continuously improve the skills and behaviour of managers. This development comprises a variety of measures and methods that are individually tailored to the needs of managers. It supports companies in optimally preparing their future managers for the challenges of the future and increasing organisational performance.
Fundamentals of leadership skills development
Leadership skills development is based on the realisation that managers must not only be technical experts, but also social role models. This includes skills such as communication, conflict management and team leadership. Companies use various methods to systematically promote these skills. These include coaching, mentoring, workshops and feedback programmes [1][3][4].
Coaching and mentoring
Coaching and mentoring are two of the most effective approaches to developing leadership skills. Coaching enables individualised support where managers can tackle specific challenges and work on their personal development in a targeted manner. Mentoring, on the other hand, offers the opportunity to utilise the knowledge and experience of experienced managers to share best practices and build networks [3][5].
BEST PRACTICE with one customer (name hidden due to NDA contract)In a company operating in the IT sector, a mentoring programme was introduced that enabled young managers to talk to experienced colleagues on a weekly basis and receive comprehensive feedback. This led to a significant increase in leadership skills and an improvement in team communication.
Leadership skills development in practice
In practice, it has been shown that leadership skills development should not be limited to formal training, but must also include informal learning processes and real practical experience. For example, job rotations and assignments abroad promote an understanding of company-wide processes and cultural differences [7][9].
360-degree feedback and action learning
Methods such as 360-degree feedback give managers a comprehensive picture of their strengths and weaknesses, which motivates them to continuously improve. Action learning, on the other hand, makes it possible to work on real problems in small groups and develop problem-solving skills at the same time [1][4].
BEST PRACTICE with one customer (name hidden due to NDA contract)A company in the automotive industry implemented a 360-degree feedback programme that enabled managers to receive anonymous feedback from colleagues and employees. This led to a significant improvement in communication skills and an increase in employee satisfaction.
Outcome and significance of leadership skills development
Leadership development is crucial for the success of companies as it promotes sustainability and competitiveness. Through the targeted development of leadership skills, companies can better prepare their future managers for the demands of the future and at the same time strengthen the culture and cohesion within the team.
My analysis
In summary, leadership development is a decisive factor for the long-term success of organisations. By combining adapted methods such as coaching, mentoring and feedback programmes, companies can make their managers fit for the future and improve organisational performance. Leadership development is therefore a central component of HR development that helps organisations to continuously support and improve their employees.
Further links from the text above:
You can find further information on management development methods in the following sources:
– Methods of management development
– Examples of management development
– Leadership development: methods and concepts
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