Leadership Action Plan

Effective leaders must not only have a vision that inspires others, but must be able to execute this vision successfully to ensure that it becomes a reality.  But, how do you ensure successful execution in today’s rapidly changing and dynamic business world?  Through focused and intentional leadership development.

Leadership Action Plan

Consider the following leadership action plan for those wanting to improve their leadership skills.

1. Begin with an end in mind – What does the leader need to do or know? What skills or competencies must be acquired to accomplish the goals?
2. Truthfully level regarding gaps – Be honest with individuals about the gap that exists between where they are currently and where they want to be. Help them develop a plan to get there and provide supportive feedback along the way.
3. Develop real-time learning opportunities – Give people learning assignments from real-life situations or issues. To grow, people need stretch goals and assignments.
4. Provide continuous feedback and support – Small group feedback can be effective and constructive.
5. Be sure to celebrate victories – Acknowledge and give credit and kudos to demonstrate how you and the company value people and their contributions.
6. Don’t allow resting on one’s laurels – Begin the cycle again with new goals and objectives for growth and development.

An individual leader may be able to effectively solve simple technical problems, but today’s complex problems require an alliance of diverse individuals and groups contributing unique knowledge, experience, and expertise.  It is the workforce, in creative alliance with leadership, which drives effective change – not the individual leader.

If you want to learn more financial leadership skills, then download the free 7 Habits of Highly Effective CFOs.