Leadership is ongoing; a continual journey that requires development, reflection, and the ability to adapt. For those supporting leadership development, such as HR, Learning & Development (L&D), and Talent teams, guiding leaders to stay at the top of their game is a key success factor.
The Three Pillars of Leadership Development
A helpful way to understand leadership development is through John Adair’s Action-Centred Leadership Model. Adair's model presents three key areas that a leader must balance to be effective:
Achieving the TaskThe core purpose of any leadership role is to ensure goals are met. Task accomplishment requires strategy, clear objectives, and organisational focus.
Building and Maintaining the TeamA team thrives on collaboration, communication, and shared goals. Without strong team dynamics, even the most capable leader can struggle to achieve success.
Developing the IndividualEffective leaders recognise the importance of developing their people. Investing in individual growth leads to improved performance, higher morale, and greater long-term impact.
These three elements are interdependent, and neglecting one can have a ripple effect on the others. Focusing too much on one aspect, can alter the whole system. For example, a leader who prioritises individual development over team cohesion and task achievement risks weakening the overall performance.
The Helicopter Perspective: Balancing the Big Picture
Imagine you’re in a helicopter, soaring high above your organisation. From this vantage point, you can see the entirety of the landscape—the task, the team, and the individuals. Your job as a leader is to fly close to the areas that need your attention, make adjustments where necessary, and then return to the broader view. This ability to step back, assess the needs of each area, and then take action is a vital leadership skill.
Just like a helicopter pilot need to be aware of where they’re flying, leaders must be conscious of where they direct their focus. Are they paying enough attention to the development of their team members? Are they staying on track with organisational goals? Are they nurturing individuals’ growth? Each area needs periodic attention, and balance is key.
The Role of HR, L&D, and Talent Teams
For those who support leadership development, such as HR and L&D professionals, it’s crucial to foster environments where leadership is seen as an ongoing process. Leaders should never feel they’ve "arrived." Instead, they embrace learning as a lifelong endeavour, constantly adapting and evolving to meet new challenges.
This is where a strategic focus on coaching, development programmes, and leadership training becomes invaluable. Supporting leaders with targeted 1:1 coaching can ensure that they continuously reassess their approach and grow in a way that benefits both themselves and the organisation as a whole.
The Return on Investment
The benefits of leadership development go far beyond individual growth. A well-supported leader can drive:
Stronger Teams: Leaders who invest in their people create high-performing teams that can adapt to change and work collaboratively.
Increased Productivity: Leaders who can balance task achievement with individual growth inspire more efficient and effective work.
Enhanced Employee Engagement: Leaders who focus on personal development build trust, leading to a more engaged workforce.
Sustained Success: Constant development ensures that leaders are equipped to handle future challenges and lead their organisations toward long-term success.
Leadership is not a static achievement—it’s a dynamic process that requires constant attention, reflection, and growth. For HR, L&D, and Talent professionals, investing in leadership development will yield lasting rewards not just for the individuals, but for the organisation as a whole.
So, let’s keep the helicopter flying high. The landscape will keep changing, and it’s our job to ensure that leaders have the tools and support to adapt.
At The Leadership Coaches, we tailor each coaching experience to each executive’s unique needs, helping them navigate complex leadership landscapes, develop their teams, and drive their organisation to success.
Take the first step towards transformative leadership today.
Contact us now to schedule a consultation and discover how 1:1 coaching can unlock your full leadership potential. Together, we’ll help you achieve your goals, both as a leader and as a person.
