Leadership development is the deliberate, systematic process of expanding an individual’s capacity to be an effective leader within their roles, teams, and the organization as a whole.
It goes beyond simply training managers on operational tasks; it focuses on cultivating essential soft skills, knowledge, and attributes such as:
- Strategic thinking;
- Emotional intelligence;
- Communication;
- Influence;
- The ability to inspire and motivate others.
Performance management facilitates leadership development tactics
Leadership development is part of the cycle of continuous improvement across an entire workforce. Effective performance management involves encouraging and developing emerging leaders, so they can get ready to take on greater responsibilities, drive positive change, and successfully guide a team through challenges.
To do this, a performance management system identifies employees with high potential or those currently in leadership roles who have competency gaps, using tools like 360-degree feedback and performance reviews.
This data informs the creation of Individual Development Plans (IDPs), which prescribe specific, targeted leadership interventions such as coaching, mentorship, stretch assignments, and specialized training.
It also impacts existing leaders who can continue to develop their leadership skills based on the results of supervisor reviews and leadership assessments.