Management and Leadership Development
Employers are increasingly aware of the issue of “accidental managers” – individuals who have been promoted to senior positions based on tenure or technical skills rather than leadership abilities. A study by the Chartered Management Institute found that 82% of managers have not received proper training, contributing to nearly one in three workers quitting due to poor management. This highlights a critical need for those in management positions to develop their skills in this area, ensuring they can lead effectively and meet appropriate standards. At first glance, leadership and management may seem similar, but they serve different purposes within an organisation.
Leadership
Leadership is about inspiring and motivating people. Leaders focus on vision, innovation, and change. They encourage people to think creatively and strive for excellence.
In simple terms, leaders are often seen as visionaries who guide others towards a common goal, while managers are generally operational. They are the ones who implement plans and ensure that everything stays on track.
Attributes of great leaders
Great leaders possess a unique set of qualities that inspire others to follow them:
Visionary thinking
They have a clear idea of where they want to go and can communicate this vision effectively.
Empathy
They understand the feelings and perspectives of others, fostering a supportive environment.
Integrity
They act with honesty and uphold strong moral principles.
Adaptability
They can adjust their approach based on changing circumstances or feedback.
Inspiration
They motivate others through encouragement and enthusiasm.
Decisiveness
They make informed decisions confidently and take responsibility for the outcomes.
Management
Management on the other hand, is about organising and coordinating tasks. Managers ensure that day-to-day operations run smoothly, focusing on processes, efficiency, and achieving specific goals.
Attributes of great managers
Effective managers possess distinct skills that help them create a structured and efficient work environment.
Organisational skills
Good managers can handle many tasks at once while keeping everything in order. They know how to stay organised so that nothing gets forgotten.
Communication skills
They are able to share information clearly and listen carefully to their team members. This helps everyone understand what needs to be done.
Empowering and coaching
Great managers empower their team members to come up with solutions when problems arise. They act as coaches and mentors, guiding others to think critically and take ownership of challenges, fostering a culture of innovation and self-reliance.
Time management
They know how to prioritise tasks so they can meet deadlines without sacrificing quality. This means they focus on what is most important first.
Team building
Good managers create strong teams by recognising what each person does well. They encourage teamwork and help everyone work together effectively.
Performance monitoring
They keep track of how well the team is doing in reaching their goals. They also provide helpful feedback so that everyone can improve.
Combining the skills of leadership and management
Anyone in a position of responsibility, where they oversee or influence the work of others, can greatly benefit from both leadership and management training. While leadership and management are distinct in their focus – leadership being about inspiring and guiding teams, and management about planning and organizing tasks – the two are deeply interconnected and complementary.
In addition to formal qualifications for leaders and managers, informal methods such as mentorship, coaching, and peer learning can be incredibly valuable for developing leadership and management skills, offering practical, real-world insights that formal qualifications often can’t provide.
Formal qualifications
These structured programmes provide in-depth knowledge and recognised credentials in digital skills. Offered by colleges, universities, and professional organisations, they range from diplomas and degrees to industry-specific certifications. Many courses are available full-time, part-time, or as apprenticeships, making them accessible for both students and working professionals.
Workshops on communication skills
These sessions focus on improving interpersonal skills crucial for effective management. These are often provided through professional business associations and commercial organisations but are also offered through funded programmes from local authorities.
Leadership workshops
These are interactive sessions where participants engage in group activities and discussions. The aim is to help individuals develop essential leadership qualities in a fun and collaborative environment. These are often provided through professional business associations and commercial organisations but are also offered through funded programmes from local authorities.
Mentorship programmes
Being paired with an experienced leader can be incredibly beneficial. Mentors offer valuable insights into industry-specific challenges, share proven leadership strategies, and provide guidance on career development. Many industries have dedicated mentorship programmes, often organised by professional associations or leading businesses within the sector, to support emerging talent and future leaders.
Leadership coaching
Leadership coaches focus on helping individuals improve their emotional intelligence. This includes important skills like empathy, self-regulation, and motivation. Coaches guide leaders in understanding their own behaviour and how others perceive them, which is crucial for personal growth. These are often provided through professional business associations and commercial organisations.
Online courses
There are many online platforms, such as Coursera or LinkedIn Learning, that offer courses specifically designed for those who want to become leaders. These courses cover various topics, including emotional intelligence, strategic thinking, and team dynamics, making it easier for aspiring leaders to learn at their own pace.
Professional associations
Management and leadership professionals may belong to professional bodies such as: –
- Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) – https://www.cipd.org/uk/
- The Institute of Leadership & Management (ILM) – https://www.i-l-m.com/
- The Chartered Managers Institute (CMI) – https://www.managers.org.uk/
- The Institute of Leadership (ILP) – https://leadership.global/
- Chartered Institute of Leadership and Management (CILM) – https://cilm-europe.org/
- Academy of Management (AOM) – https://aom.org/
Local courses and education providers that could support your management and leaderships skills development can be found here.