PROGRAM vs PROCESS

"Most of what's labelled as 'leadership' today is just management in new attire."

How often have you heard the term "leadership development program" and imagined an intense workshop or perhaps a few modules to complete? 

Let's revisit that...

Ever attended a leadership development workshop? 

Walked out with a certificate feeling like a leader? 

Leadership isn't a title you earn after a day's workshop or a few online modules. 

True leadership is a continuous evolution. 🌱

Leadership ≠ Management.

Here's why:

Evolution Over a Checklist: Modern management techniques focus on ticking boxes. Leadership is about evolving, a journey, not a destination. Leadership isn't a milestone you achieve; it’s a journey you embark upon. While management practices focus on ticking off tasks, leadership is about personal and professional growth.

People Aren't Resources: We lead people and manage resources. People aren't to be 'managed'. 'Human Resources' should be resources FOR humans. Isn't it ironic that we often use the term ‘manage people’? People are not software licenses or office furniture to be managed. They are to be led, inspired, and nurtured. Let’s think of ‘Human Resources’ as resources meant to uplift humans.

True Leadership Definition: Leadership is about nurturing. 

"Leadership is about helping people become the best version of themselves, so they can do their life's best work while in your care and beyond."

For all the HR and Organisational Development leaders out there in medium to large organisations, here's a fresh perspective: Instead of investing in another "Leadership Program", invest in a "Leadership Process". 

Look beyond the immediate, the #certificates, the #checkboxes. Seek depth, strength, and authenticity.

Instead of pouring resources into another “3-Day Leadership Workshop”, why not envision a long-term "Leadership Evolution Process"? Move past the certificates. Aim for depth, resilience, and genuine transformation. In essence, let's transition from creating 'leaders' in workshops to nurturing them in workplaces. 

Because leadership isn't an event. It's a journey.

Unexpected Thought: That young intern or the quiet teammate beside you? They might just be the next big leader. Not because they attended a workshop, but because they were given the right environment to evolve. 

Maybe the next leader isn't in a workshop, but right beside you, waiting for the process to begin.

It's time to look at how we develop leadership depth and strength in our organisations.

Dave Clare

Chief Evolution Officer, Circle Leadership Global.

 

WEEKLY CLARISM

Please see above...you get the point.