My recipe: Create an environment within the company in which employees who have only recently taken on a leadership position or are striving for it have the opportunity to make mistakes. To facilitate this, establish clear KPIs that measure intermediate stages of project implementation, allowing leaders to learn from errors and adjust their approach accordingly.
Regular meetings should be held to review these KPIs, discuss progress and address any challenges. This will allow you to quickly halt a project if necessary to avoid significant losses. In such a system, team members can propose new approaches and strive for different results so the business doesn’t suffer.
Here are a few practical steps to support the development of leaders from within.
• Create an atmosphere in which initiatives and new ideas are welcomed and encouraged. This motivates employees to be more active and propose fresh projects.
• Cultivate leaders within the company by implementing a robust mentorship program that pairs less experienced employees with seasoned leaders to foster skill development.
• Provide regular opportunities for advancement and professional growth, such as workshops, seminars and projects that challenge and expand teammates’ current skill sets.
• Hire from your “alumni.” Invite former employees who have gained new experience in other companies to return to your team in new positions, enriching your corporate culture with fresh views and approaches.