Over the last few years, the role of a leader and the leadership skills required to lead teams has undoubtedly changed.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the business landscape underwent a seismic shift, forcing organisations worldwide to re-evaluate their strategies. In addition, leaders found themselves required to reassess their approaches.
The challenges presented by the pandemic accelerated the need for a new breed of leaders — individuals capable of steering their teams through unprecedented uncertainties, embracing remote work dynamics, and harnessing the power of emerging technologies.
As the global workforce continues to grapple with the aftermath of the pandemic and current global crises, such as climate change and geopolitical tensions, the demands on leaders have become even more complex.
Today's leaders must navigate a landscape marked by volatility, ambiguity, and constant change. These expectations from leaders in 2024 are poised to reflect the lessons learned during these transformative times.
But what are the top leadership skills for 2024? We explore just a few in this blog.
What Are the Top Leadership Skills For 2024?
From adaptability and emotional intelligence to tech-savviness, remote leadership, crisis management, and diversity, equity, and inclusion, the evolving nature of leadership calls for a multifaceted skill set.
Adaptability and Flexibility
In an era of rapid change, adaptability, and flexibility have become cornerstone leadership skills. According to a survey conducted by the World Economic Forum, 87% of CEOs believe that having a workforce skilled in adaptation and agility is critical for the success of their business.
In 2024, leaders must be adept at navigating uncertainties, embracing change, and leading their teams through periods of transformation.
To foster adaptability, leaders can prioritise continuous learning and development through the employment of executive coaching.
Using executive coaching, leaders can gain valuable insights into their leadership styles, identify areas for improvement, and refine their skills. This personalised approach to professional development allows leaders to address specific challenges they may face in their roles.
Emotional Intelligence
Emotional intelligence (EI) remains a timeless leadership skill, gaining even more prominence in 2024. A study published in the Harvard Business Review reveals that 90% of top performers possess high levels of emotional intelligence, highlighting its impact on leadership success.
Leaders with high emotional intelligence can effectively navigate interpersonal dynamics, build strong relationships, and inspire collaboration. They can also support people who might be going through personal problems with their well-being and mental health much better.
Tech Savviness
As technology continues to evolve, leaders must stay informed about emerging trends and their implications for their industries. This includes artificial intelligence, automation, and the ethical considerations associated with these technologies.
According to a report by PwC, 80% of CEOs believe that artificial intelligence (AI) will significantly change the way they do business in the next five years. Considering this, leaders should be proactive in understanding how technology can enhance their business operations and customer experiences while remaining mindful of potential challenges and ethical dilemmas.
Remote Leadership Skills
The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of remote work, making remote leadership skills indispensable in 2024.
Though some organisations now require their people to work from the office, approximately 75% of organisations fully embrace hybrid working. However, skills such as trust building, effective communication, connection, leading teams, and navigating productivity are still lacking in some organisations.
According to a study by Buffer, 20% of remote workers struggle with loneliness, emphasising the importance of leaders creating a supportive and inclusive virtual work environment. Likewise, it’s estimated that only 25% of employees in the UK trust their leaders.
As we move into the new year, remote leadership skills are vital. But how can these be developed?
Executive coaching is a fantastic place to start. Through coaching, leaders can enhance their communication skills, for example, with the support of a coach.
Crisis Management
In an era marked by global uncertainties, crisis management skills are paramount for leaders. The ability to navigate through crises, make informed decisions under pressure, and provide a sense of stability to the team is crucial.
According to a survey by McKinsey, 93% of executives believe that their organisations will face a crisis in the next year, underscoring the need for leaders to be prepared.
Leaders can hone their crisis management skills through scenario planning, regular risk assessments, and developing clear communication strategies.
Leaders can also enhance their crisis management skills by working with an executive coach and progressing through an executive coaching programme. In doing so, they’ll understand their current strengths, delve into what they could do differently, and harness the long-term benefits of executive coaching.
Innovative Thinking
Innovation is the lifeblood of progress, and leaders must be at the forefront of driving creative solutions.
According to a PwC survey, 77% of CEOs see creativity as the most important leadership trait.
In 2024, leaders need to cultivate a culture of innovation within their organisations. This involves encouraging risk-taking, embracing failure as a learning opportunity, adopting a growth mindset, and fostering an environment where ideas can flourish. As industries evolve, those who can think outside the box will lead the way.
Conclusion
As we forge ahead into 2024, leaders must equip themselves with a diverse skill set to navigate the complexities of the modern business landscape.
Adaptability, emotional intelligence, tech-savviness, remote leadership skills, and crisis management are just some of the cornerstones of successful leadership. Backed by relevant statistics, these skills provide a roadmap for leaders striving to make a lasting impact in the years to come.
If you’ve noticed that leaders in your organisation would benefit from support in developing any of the top leadership skills for 2024, reach out to us as soon as possible.
Our executive coaching services are in high demand, as are our team of credible executive coaches.
With our support, your leaders can transform their skills and have a long-lasting impact on the wider organisation.
When you’re ready to discuss your needs with us, fill out our contact form, and a member of our senior leadership team will be in touch to learn more about your needs.
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