In today’s dynamic business environment, effective leadership is crucial for organisational success. FidesOak®’s experts - Paula Paterson, Solutions Director; Katy Eckert-Turnbull, Coaching and Behaviours Specialist; and Ian Noble, Training Manager - emphasise the importance of comprehensive leadership development programmes in cultivating capable leaders.
Drawing from his extensive experience, Ian Noble observes that many organisations promote individuals into leadership positions based primarily on technical proficiency, tenure, or as part of a ‘natural’ progression. This approach, however, often results in leaders who may excel in managing processes but lack the developed skill set to effectively inspire and guide their teams. Ian explains that short-term training sessions are frequently insufficient, describing them as “tick-box exercises” that fail to instil the deep and lasting leadership competencies required for true effectiveness.
While there are instances where short-term training session scan be effective, their success largely depends on the specific goals of the training, the complexity of the skills being developed, and the existing experience level of the participants. For example, refresher courses on core leadership principles or workshops focused on targeted skills, such as conflict resolution or time management, can provide immediate value. However, when it comes to cultivating comprehensive leadership abilities, more structured, ongoing programmes are often necessary to achieve lasting impact.
Katy Eckert-Turnbull highlights that promoting high-potential individuals for their technical expertise often overlooks critical interpersonal skills, including emotional intelligence and communication. Katy advocates for structured leadership development programmes that address these essential areas, enabling leaders to establish authentic leadership styles and foster high-performing teams. By prioritising interpersonal development, these programmes equip leaders to navigate team dynamics effectively and create supportive, collaborative environments.
Paula Paterson underscores the necessity of investing in both technical and non-technical skills, especially as Millennials and Generation Z now constitute a significant portion of the workforce. According to Statista, as of 2021, Millennials and Generation Z together account for approximately 58% of the UK’s workforce (Statista).Paula emphasises that organisations must adapt to the expectations of these younger generations, who place high value on strong communication, emotional intelligence, and purposeful leadership. Investment in comprehensive development not only builds leadership capacity but also supports talent retention and a sustainable leadership pipeline.
The consensus among FidesOak®’s experts is clear: effective leadership development requires more than short-term training. Rather, it necessitates ongoing programmes that equip leaders with the skills and insights needed to grow and adapt continuously. These programmes allow leaders to practise and refine their abilities, fostering environments in which teams can truly excel.
For organisations committed to strengthening their leadership, FidesOak® offers tailored development programmes designed to build high-performing teams and cultures. Contact us to discover how we can support the development of the leaders your organisation needs to succeed.
