Developing Future Leaders: A Pathway and Training Program for Emerging and First-Time Leaders
Introduction: The Strategic Imperative of Developing Emerging Leaders:
Organizations today recognize that their future success hinges on the strength and capabilities of their leadership. Emerging and first-time leaders represent the next generation of individuals who will guide and shape the direction of the enterprise. Investing in their development is not merely a beneficial initiative but a strategic imperative for sustained growth and competitiveness 1. A well-structured leadership development pathway ensures a consistent pipeline of qualified individuals ready to assume greater responsibilities, fostering long-term stability and a culture of continuous improvement. By identifying and nurturing potential leaders early in their careers, companies proactively prepare for future leadership needs, reducing their reliance on external recruitment for senior roles and injecting fresh perspectives and innovative approaches into the organization.
The development of these leaders carries a dual imperative: demonstrating a tangible return on investment (ROI) and directly supporting the achievement of the organization's operational goals. Leadership development programs must not only be effective in enhancing individual skills but also contribute measurably to the bottom line and strategic objectives of the company 3. Research indicates a strong correlation between effective leadership development initiatives and improved financial performance, enhanced talent management, more successful strategy execution, and greater organizational agility in navigating change 3. Notably, a 2023 study revealed a significant $7 return for every $1 invested in leadership development programs, highlighting the potential for substantial financial gains through such initiatives 5. Therefore, the design and implementation of these programs must prioritize both the development of crucial leadership competencies and the establishment of clear metrics to track their impact on key business outcomes.
Understanding the Foundation: Defining Emerging and First-Time Leaders:
To create targeted and effective development programs, it is essential to clearly define the characteristics and needs of both first-time and emerging leaders within an organizational context.
Defining "First-Time Leader":
First-time leaders are typically individuals who have recently transitioned into a formal leadership or management role, often moving from positions where their primary focus was on individual contributions 6. This transition marks a significant shift in responsibilities, requiring them to move from executing tasks independently to guiding, supporting, and enabling others to achieve team and organizational objectives 7. A common challenge for these new leaders is recognizing that leading demands an entirely different set of strengths and skills compared to their previous roles 8. They must learn to balance their expanded responsibilities with the need to stay connected to the core work of their teams without resorting to micromanagement 7. For first-time CEOs, success often hinges on developing a comprehensive initial plan and adopting a proactive approach to their new responsibilities 9. Many organizations, however, do not provide adequate support or formal training to facilitate this critical transition, leaving new leaders to navigate these challenges without the necessary tools and guidance 6. This lack of preparation can impact their confidence and performance, potentially affecting the morale and productivity of their entire team 10. Therefore, targeted training that specifically addresses the unique challenges of this transition and focuses on foundational leadership skills is crucial for setting first-time leaders up for success.
Defining "Emerging Leader":
Emerging leaders, on the other hand, are employees who have demonstrated the potential and ambition to assume leadership roles in the future, even if they currently do not hold a formal leadership title 11. These individuals are often strong technical performers who possess the capacity and desire to advance to higher levels within the organization 11. They typically exhibit qualities such as motivation, a willingness to reflect on their actions, and the courage to embrace risk and learn from difficult experiences 12. Emerging leaders often demonstrate commitment, are influential among their peers, and consistently step up to take on more responsibility 11. Even without formal authority, they often show budding leadership qualities early in their careers and can quickly become influential within their teams and the broader organization 13. They may also step up to lead their peers informally, contributing to improved team culture and reducing operational bottlenecks 15. Key characteristics of emerging leaders include an awareness of others, a tendency to support and develop their colleagues, a consistent contribution of ideas in group settings, and a strong sense of personal values 14. Recognizing and nurturing these individuals is vital for strengthening the organization's leadership pipeline and fostering a culture of internal growth.
Unique Challenges and Opportunities:
Both first-time and emerging leaders face distinct challenges and possess unique opportunities. First-time leaders often struggle with the practical aspects of managing a team, such as effective delegation, navigating relationships with former peers, making strategic decisions, building confidence in their new role, and avoiding the pitfalls of micromanagement 7. However, they also have the opportunity to shape their team's culture and drive performance with fresh perspectives and a potentially strong understanding of the team's work. Emerging leaders, while not yet in formal roles, face challenges in developing their leadership skills without direct authority, gaining visibility within the organization, and navigating complex organizational dynamics. Their opportunities lie in contributing to team success through their influence, proactively preparing for future leadership roles, and demonstrating their potential to senior leaders 14. Recognizing these distinct needs and opportunities is paramount for designing leadership development programs that are relevant and impactful for each group, ensuring that first-time leaders acquire the practical management skills they need while emerging leaders develop their strategic thinking and influence.
Key Steps in Building a Comprehensive Leadership Development Pathway:
Creating a robust leadership development pathway requires a strategic and systematic approach. Several key steps are crucial for building a program that effectively cultivates future leaders and aligns with organizational objectives.
Step 1: Conduct a Needs Assessment:
The foundation of an effective leadership development pathway lies in a thorough understanding of the organization's current and future leadership needs. This involves identifying the skills, knowledge, and competencies that will be required to achieve strategic goals and meet operational requirements 17. A comprehensive needs assessment should analyze the existing leadership capabilities within the target groups of emerging and first-time leaders, pinpointing any gaps that need to be addressed through development initiatives 3. This assessment might involve surveys, interviews, focus groups, and performance data analysis to gain a clear picture of the current leadership landscape and future requirements. Connecting the learning experiences directly to the real on-the-job challenges faced by these individuals is paramount for ensuring the relevance and impact of the development program 3.
Step 2: Define Leadership Competencies:
Based on the insights from the needs assessment, the next step is to establish a clear framework of the essential leadership competencies required for success at different leadership levels within the organization 11. This framework should outline the specific skills, knowledge, and behaviors that emerging and first-time leaders need to develop as they progress along the leadership pathway 19. It should encompass both technical skills relevant to their specific roles and crucial soft skills such as communication, collaboration, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence. A well-defined competency framework serves as a blueprint for the leadership development pathway, providing a clear understanding of the expectations for effective leadership and guiding the design of training programs and development activities.
Step 3: Set Clear Objectives and Learning Outcomes:
With a competency framework in place, it is essential to define specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) objectives for the overall leadership development pathway and for individual training programs within it 17. These objectives should clearly articulate what the organization aims to achieve through its investment in leadership development. Furthermore, specific learning outcomes should be defined for participants at each stage of the pathway, outlining the knowledge, skills, and abilities they are expected to acquire 18. Clearly defined objectives and learning outcomes provide focus and direction for the development pathway, enabling effective measurement of its success and ensuring that participants understand what they are expected to gain from the program.
Step 4: Design the Overall Pathway Structure:
The leadership development pathway should be structured with distinct stages or levels that cater to the specific needs of both emerging and first-time leaders 6. This structure should outline the progression criteria, indicating the milestones and achievements required for participants to move from one stage to the next, along with an estimated timeline for this progression 20. At each stage of the pathway, a variety of development activities and resources should be incorporated, such as formal training programs, on-the-job assignments, mentoring and coaching opportunities, and self-study materials. A well-designed pathway provides a clear progression route for aspiring and new leaders, signaling the organization's commitment to their development and offering a framework for continuous growth.
Step 5: Secure Senior Leadership Support and Resources:
The success of any significant leadership development initiative hinges on securing visible and active support from senior executives within the organization 3. This support demonstrates the strategic importance of leadership development and ensures that the program receives the necessary financial, human, and technological resources required for its design, implementation, and long-term sustainability. Senior leaders should actively champion the program, communicate its value to the organization, and participate in development activities where appropriate. Their buy-in is crucial for fostering a culture that values leadership development and encourages employee participation and engagement.
Designing Effective Training Programs for Emerging Leaders:
The design of effective training programs for emerging leaders requires careful consideration of the curriculum content, delivery methods, and program structure to ensure maximum impact and relevance.
Curriculum Content:
The curriculum for emerging and first-time leaders should focus on building foundational leadership skills that are immediately applicable in their current roles and lay the groundwork for future growth. Key areas of focus should include communication skills, encompassing active listening, clear articulation, and providing constructive feedback 22. Delegation skills are also crucial for first-time managers to learn how to effectively assign tasks, empower team members, and free up their own time for strategic initiatives 24. Decision-making skills, including problem-solving, critical thinking, and the ability to make timely and informed choices, are essential for both emerging and first-time leaders 24. Developing emotional intelligence, which includes self-awareness, empathy, self-regulation, and social skills, enables leaders to understand and manage their own emotions and effectively interact with others 16. Conflict resolution skills are necessary for navigating disagreements, fostering collaboration, and maintaining a positive team environment 16. Time management and prioritization skills help new leaders manage their workload effectively and focus on strategic priorities 24. Finally, team building skills are vital for fostering collaboration, trust, and high performance within teams 20. Beyond these core skills, the curriculum should also incorporate elements of self-awareness, encouraging leaders to understand their strengths, weaknesses, values, and motivations 13. Personal development modules can focus on building confidence, resilience, and a growth mindset 22. An understanding of the organization's culture, values, mission, and strategic objectives should also be integrated to ensure alignment and a sense of purpose 7.
Delivery Methods:
An effective leadership development program for emerging leaders should utilize a blended learning approach that incorporates a variety of delivery methods to cater to different learning styles and maximize engagement 21. Interactive workshops provide opportunities for hands-on learning, skill practice, and peer interaction 49. Online modules and e-learning platforms offer flexibility and accessibility for learning at one's own pace, covering foundational concepts and providing resources for further exploration 47. Individual coaching and mentoring provide personalized guidance, feedback, and support from experienced leaders or external coaches 2. Simulations and role-playing exercises create realistic scenarios where participants can practice leadership skills and receive feedback in a safe environment 47. Action learning projects involve participants working on real-world business problems, applying their learning to create tangible solutions 53. Peer learning groups foster a collaborative environment where leaders can share experiences, learn from each other, and build a supportive network 3. The integration of technology, such as AI-powered coaching and personalized learning paths, can further enhance the effectiveness and scalability of the program 47.
Program Duration and Structure:
Leadership development is not a one-time event but an ongoing journey that requires sustained effort and reinforcement 3. Therefore, the program should be designed as a continuous process rather than a single workshop or training session 3. It can be structured into different phases or modules spread over a period of time, allowing participants to learn and apply new skills gradually 20. Opportunities for continuous learning should be integrated, such as access to online resources, webinars, and ongoing coaching or mentoring 3. Regular reinforcement of learned concepts and skills through practical application and follow-up activities is crucial for embedding new behaviors 3. Building in feedback mechanisms, including self-assessment, peer feedback, and feedback from managers, supports personal development and allows participants to track their progress 3. Creating a community of practice among participants can also foster ongoing learning and support 3.
Integrating ROI Measurement into Leadership Development:
Demonstrating the value and impact of a leadership development program requires a strategic approach to measuring its return on investment (ROI). This involves establishing a clear framework and tracking relevant metrics to showcase the program's contribution to organizational goals.
Framework for Measuring ROI:
To effectively measure the ROI of leadership development, organizations should adopt a recognized methodology such as the ROI Methodology developed by the ROI Institute or the Kirkpatrick Model 17. The ROI Methodology involves a systematic process of evaluating a program's impact by isolating its effects, converting data to monetary values, accounting for intangible benefits, tabulating all program costs, and then calculating the ROI 72. The Kirkpatrick Model provides a four-level framework for evaluation: Reaction (participant satisfaction), Learning (knowledge and skills acquired), Behavior (application of learning on the job), and Results (impact on business outcomes) 17. Regardless of the chosen methodology, it is crucial to define clear metrics aligned with the program's objectives and the organization's business goals before implementation 17. Baseline data should be collected before the program begins to provide a point of comparison for measuring change after implementation. Throughout and after the program, relevant data should be tracked to identify any changes in the defined metrics. Efforts should be made to isolate the impact of the leadership development program from other factors that may influence the measured outcomes 72. Where possible, data should be converted to monetary values to provide a clear financial return on the investment 72.
Key Metrics to Track:
Several key metrics can be tracked to assess the ROI of a leadership development program for emerging and first-time leaders. Employee retention rates are a critical indicator of the program's ability to foster loyalty and commitment among participants 5. Employee engagement scores can reflect the program's impact on morale, motivation, and overall job satisfaction 3. Measuring productivity levels and efficiency gains can demonstrate how the program has improved individual and team performance 19. Changes in revenue growth and sales figures can indicate the program's direct contribution to the organization's financial success 5. Cost savings, such as reduced recruitment costs due to increased internal promotions, can also be a significant indicator of ROI 1. Customer satisfaction scores can reflect the impact of improved leadership on customer experience 73. Project success rates can demonstrate how the program has enhanced leaders' ability to deliver successful outcomes 2. Finally, leadership effectiveness scores, often gathered through 360-degree feedback assessments, can provide insights into changes in leadership behaviors and competencies 21.
Aligning Leadership Development with Operational Goals:
The true value of a leadership development program lies in its ability to directly contribute to the achievement of the organization's operational goals. When leadership skills are effectively developed, they act as direct drivers of operational success. Effective leaders are better equipped to motivate their teams, improve communication flow, enhance decision-making processes, and drive strategic initiatives forward 1. Therefore, a strong alignment between the leadership development program and the organization's operational goals is essential to ensure that the investment yields tangible results and directly supports the company's strategic direction.
Several strategies can be employed to foster this crucial alignment. Senior leaders should be actively involved in the design and ongoing oversight of the program to ensure that it directly addresses the organization's strategic priorities and operational needs 3. Real-world organizational challenges and strategic initiatives should be used as case studies and action learning projects within the training programs, providing participants with opportunities to apply their learning to relevant business issues 2. The specific leadership competencies being developed should be directly relevant to the skills and behaviors required to achieve key operational goals, ensuring that participants acquire the capabilities needed to drive performance in critical areas 11. Finally, the impact of the program should be consistently measured using key operational metrics that are directly linked to the organization's strategic objectives, providing data-driven insights into the program's effectiveness in supporting business outcomes 17.
Case Studies and Examples of Successful Emerging Leader Programs:
Examining successful emerging leader programs in other organizations can provide valuable insights and inspiration for developing an effective program. Several examples from the research snippets highlight different approaches and positive outcomes.
Adobe's Leadership Circles program, launched in 2013, focused on empowering high-performing and high-potential women leaders within sales to advance their careers. The program has seen an impressive 35% of participants promoted to Director-level positions or above, demonstrating its effectiveness in developing future leaders 69.
Microsoft's leadership development approach centers around instilling a "growth mindset" culture across the organization. Their framework emphasizes coaching employees to be active role models and demonstrating care for their personal growth. This approach has contributed to a culture where challenges and failures are seen as development opportunities 6.
Freeletics implemented a leadership onboarding program consisting of bite-sized content delivered over several days to help new leaders understand internal processes and resources. This initiative resulted in an 11% increase in the sense of "Mastery" among participants after three months, and 100% of people managers felt supported in their professional growth 69.
ING's International Talent Programme is a four-year learning journey designed to develop talented graduates into future banking leaders. The program focuses on personal skills development aligned with ING's values and includes experiential learning, feedback opportunities, and international placements. Results show that 95% of graduates stayed at ING for more than five years, and 50 have progressed into senior management roles 92.
Impact Group worked with a client to develop 150 employees over eight years through their leadership training program. This resulted in a 90% retention rate and a 20% promotion rate for program participants. One capstone project from the program even eliminated $750,000 in software platform spending 89.
These examples demonstrate the diverse ways organizations are successfully developing their emerging leaders, often leading to significant positive outcomes in terms of career advancement, employee engagement, and organizational impact.
Overcoming Challenges and Ensuring Long-Term Success:
Developing and sustaining a comprehensive leadership development pathway for emerging and first-time leaders can present several challenges. Organizations need to be aware of these potential obstacles and implement strategies to mitigate them to ensure the program's long-term success.
Potential Obstacles:
One significant obstacle can be a lack of sustained commitment from senior management, which can lead to insufficient resources and a lack of organizational priority for leadership development 3. Insufficient allocation of financial resources, time for participants to engage in learning, and dedicated personnel to manage the program can also hinder its effectiveness 3. Measuring the impact of leadership development and demonstrating a clear ROI can be challenging, potentially leading to questions about the program's value 4. Resistance to change from participants who may be hesitant to embrace new leadership styles or from managers who are reluctant to release their team members for training can also impede progress 3. Ensuring the transfer of learning from the training environment to the actual workplace can be difficult if there is a lack of reinforcement and support on the job 3. Over time, program fatigue or a lack of sustained engagement from participants can also diminish the program's impact 3. Finally, defining leadership solely by job title and neglecting the development of emerging leaders without formal roles can limit the program's reach and potential 15.
Recommendations for Success:
To overcome these challenges and ensure the long-term success of the leadership development pathway, several recommendations can be implemented. Securing ongoing executive sponsorship and active engagement is paramount, with senior leaders consistently championing the program and communicating its strategic importance 3. Adequate financial, human, and technological resources must be allocated to support the program's design, delivery, and evaluation, demonstrating the organization's commitment to leadership development 3. Implementing a robust ROI measurement framework, as discussed earlier, is crucial for tracking the program's impact and effectively communicating its value to stakeholders 17. Involving managers in the development process and equipping them to reinforce learning on the job can significantly enhance the transfer of skills and knowledge to the workplace 3. Designing engaging and relevant program content that incorporates opportunities for practical application, such as simulations and action learning projects, can increase participant motivation and retention 47. Fostering a culture of continuous learning within the organization and providing ongoing support for program participants through coaching, mentoring, and access to resources can ensure sustained growth and development 3. Recognizing and nurturing emerging leaders at all levels, regardless of their formal title, can broaden the leadership pipeline and foster a more inclusive development culture 11.
Conclusion: Investing in the Future Through Emerging Leaders:
In conclusion, the development of emerging and first-time leaders is not merely a talent management initiative but a fundamental investment in the future success and sustainability of any organization. By creating a comprehensive leadership development pathway and targeted training programs, companies can cultivate a robust pipeline of skilled and confident leaders ready to navigate future challenges and drive organizational growth. The key lies in a strategic and systematic approach that encompasses a thorough needs assessment, a well-defined competency framework, clear objectives, a structured pathway, and strong senior leadership support. Effective training programs should focus on foundational leadership skills, utilize blended learning methodologies, and be structured as an ongoing journey with continuous reinforcement and feedback. Critically, organizations must integrate robust ROI measurement frameworks to demonstrate the tangible value of their investment and ensure that leadership development is directly aligned with operational goals. By proactively addressing potential challenges and implementing recommendations for long-term success, organizations can build a thriving leadership culture that drives performance, fosters innovation, and secures a prosperous future. Investing in emerging leaders today is an investment in the organization's tomorrow.
Works cited
Assessing Early Talent Development: ROI and Success Metrics - LDP Connect, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://ldpconnect.com/investing-in-early-career-development-understanding-benefits-risks-and-measures-of-success/
Supporting Emerging Leaders Through Strategic Learning - Join The Collective, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.jointhecollective.com/article/supporting-emerging-leaders-through-strategic-learning/
Leadership Development Best Practices: What Works Best — and What Doesn't?, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.ccl.org/articles/leading-effectively-articles/3-keys-making-leadership-development-work/
Maximizing the Impact and ROI of Leadership Development: A Theory- and Evidence-Informed Framework - PubMed Central, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11505461/
$7 ROI: Corporate Leadership Breakthrough - New Level Work, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.newlevelwork.com/post/7-for-1-a-breakthrough-in-corporate-leadership-roi-2023-research
12 Things First-Time Leaders Need to Succeed | Entrepreneur, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.entrepreneur.com/leadership/12-things-first-time-leaders-need-to-succeed/343572
Embracing Founder Mode: Letting Go to Grow as a First-Time Leader | by Gaurav Nigam, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://medium.com/@gauravnigam/embracing-founder-mode-letting-go-to-grow-as-a-first-time-leader-9a4bf19137a3
Three Things First-Time Leaders Should Know - PrimeGenesis, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.primegenesis.com/our-blog/2014/02/three-things-first-time-leaders-should-know/
How to Succeed as a First-Time CEO in the Professional Services Industry: 5 Key Insights, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.russellreynolds.com/en/insights/articles/how-to-succeed-as-a-first-time-ceo-in-the-professional-services-industry
The Importance Of Leadership Training For First Time Managers - PDW Group, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.pdwgroup.co.uk/blog/leadership-first-time-managers
Developing Emerging Leaders Strategically - Insigniam, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://insigniam.com/developing-emerging-leaders-strategically/
What are the characteristics of an emerging leader? | by Luke Morton - Medium, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://medium.com/@lcmorton/what-are-the-characteristics-of-an-emerging-leader-e0cfa7cc9c72
Leadership in Action: Real-World Advice for Emerging Leaders - The Omnia Group, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://omniagroup.com/leadership-in-action-real-world-advice-for-emerging-leaders/
The Emerging Leaders Guidebook - Edge Training Systems, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.edgetrainingsystems.com/emerging-leaders-guidebook/
How to Identify Emerging Leaders and Why They're Important for Succession Planning, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://acorn.works/blog/emerging-leaders
From Peer to Leader: Training for First-Time Managers 2025 - Disprz, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://disprz.ai/blog/from-peer-to-leader-first-time-managers-training
How To Measure the Success of a Leadership Development Program - PeopleThriver, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://peoplethriver.com/how-do-you-measure-success-of-leadership-development-program/
How to Create a Successful Leadership Development Program, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.harvardbusiness.org/how-to-create-a-successful-leadership-development-program/
Leadership Development Training: Key Skills for Success - Growthspace, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.growthspace.com/guides/leadership-development-training
Leadership Development Pathways | New Leaders, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.newleaders.org/programs/leadership-pathways
7 Best Practices for Leadership Development | DDI, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.ddiworld.com/guide/ultimate-guide-leadership-development/best-practices-leadership-development
6 Helpful Benefits of Leadership Development Training - Pollack Peacebuilding, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://pollackpeacebuilding.com/blog/6-benefits-of-leadership-development-training/
Effective Leadership Techniques That Enhance Communication - EWF International, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://ewfinternational.com/effective-leadership-techniques-that-enhance-communication/
Leadership Training for New Managers: Bridging the Skills Gap - The Economic Times, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://m.economictimes.com/jobs/c-suite/leadership-training-for-new-managers-bridging-the-skills-gap/articleshow/104827055.cms
The Role of Communication in Leadership - College of Continuing and Professional Studies, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://ccaps.umn.edu/story/role-communication-leadership
Communication Skills for Emerging Leaders Guide - Join The Collective, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.jointhecollective.com/article/communication-skills-for-emerging-leaders-guide/
Why Is Communication Important in Leadership? · Babson Thought & Action, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://entrepreneurship.babson.edu/why-is-communication-important-in-leadership/
Essential Communication Skills for Leaders - Center for Creative Leadership, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.ccl.org/articles/leading-effectively-articles/communication-1-idea-3-facts-5-tips/
Why communication is essential to effective leadership | Penn LPS Online, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://lpsonline.sas.upenn.edu/features/why-communication-essential-effective-leadership
Why Leadership Communication Is Most Important Skill In Federal - Management Concepts, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://managementconcepts.com/resource/why-communication-is-the-most-important-leadership-skill-you-can-have-in-the-federal-landscape/
Emerging Leader Program: Communicating to Collaborate - February 27, 2023, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://learn.houstonmethodist.org/content/emerging-leader-program-communicating-collaborate-february-27-2023
Effective Communication for Emerging Leaders | Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://summerinstitutes.spcs.stanford.edu/courses/2025/effective-communication-emerging-leaders
Effective Delegation Techniques for New Managers – A Beginner's Guide - Niagara Institute, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.niagarainstitute.com/blog/effective-delegation-techniques-for-new-managers-a-beginners-guide
How to Delegate Effectively: 10 Delegation Tips for Leaders - Asana, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://asana.com/resources/how-to-delegate
How to Delegate Effectively: 9 Tips for Managers - HBS Online, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://online.hbs.edu/blog/post/how-to-delegate-effectively
Management Tips: 10 Reasons to Delegate - Baker Communications, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.bakercommunications.com/archive/apr13/management04013.html
6 Benefits of Delegation (+ Why Most Leaders Under-Delegate) - The Grossman Group, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.yourthoughtpartner.com/blog/the-benefits-of-delegation-and-why-most-leaders-under-delegate
Effective Leadership Goals: 20 Important Examples - Robert F. Smith, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://robertsmith.com/blog/leadership-goals/
How to Confidently Make Decisions as a New Manager: 7 Proven Strategies for Success, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://alleo.ai/blog/recent-college-graduates/building-confidence-in-professional-roles/how-to-confidently-make-decisions-as-a-new-manager/
Emerging Leader Development Program | Columbia Business School ExecEd, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://execed.business.columbia.edu/programs/eldp
How to Strengthen Decision-Making Skills for Managers - Indeed, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.indeed.com/hire/c/info/decision-making-skills-for-managers-ones-to-work-on
3 Critical Decision-Making Skills Successful Leaders Need | Sounding Board Inc, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.soundingboardinc.com/blog/leadership-capability-decision-making/
Decision-Making Skills: Improve Them to Make Better Choices - BetterUp, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.betterup.com/blog/decision-making-skills
20 Leadership Training Topics for Developing Effective Leaders - TalentLMS, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.talentlms.com/blog/leadership-training-topics/
Why leadership skills training is beneficial for your career - IMD Business School, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.imd.org/blog/leadership/leadership-skills-program/
Identifying and Supporting Emerging Leaders Through Training - Training Industry, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://trainingindustry.com/articles/leadership/identifying-and-supporting-emerging-leaders-through-training/
7 Essential strategies for emerging leaders training - Retorio, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.retorio.com/blog/7-essential-strategies-emerging-leaders-training
What is Leadership Development + Examples of Leadership Development Goals, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.togetherplatform.com/blog/what-is-leadership-development-examples-of-leadership-development-goals
Emerging Leader | UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://cpe.ucdavis.edu/course/emerging-leader
12 Key Development Areas for Leaders in 2024 - Blog, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://blog.moderngov.com/2018/10/three-development-areas-successful-leadership
The Complete Guide for the First-time Leader, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://assets-global.website-files.com/63511522c3354ec291aca2d6/64eea7f8c3b6732ca1f2aaab_First-time%20leader%20guide.pdf
Why First-Time Managers Need Training and the Best Training Strategy | Talent Sapphire, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.talentsapphire.com/posts/why-first-time-managers-need-training-and-the-best-training-strategy
Emerging Leaders Program: Becoming a Transformational Leader - Michigan Ross, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://michiganross.umich.edu/programs/executive-education/emerging-leaders-program-becoming-transformational-leader
The 8 key Leadership Skills you need to know in 2025 - IMD Business School, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.imd.org/blog/leadership/leadership-skills/
How To Build Confidence As A Leader In The Workplace, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://situational.com/blog/building-confidence-in-leadership/
How CEOs Build Unshakeable Confidence in Their Leadership - Strategy People Culture, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.strategypeopleculture.com/blog/build-confidence-in-leadership/
Confidence When You Need It Most: Five Rituals for Improved Performance, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://executiveeducation.wharton.upenn.edu/thought-leadership/wharton-at-work/2017/11/confidence-rituals/
Behind the Magic: Confidence Is the First Step to Success - Center for Creative Leadership, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://cclinnovation.org/news-posts/behind-the-magic-confidence-is-the-first-step-to-success/
Building Confidence in Leadership: The First Step to Success - D16 TOASTMASTERS, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.d16toastmasters.org/building-confidence-in-leadership-the-first-step-to-success/
Do Leaders Have to Be Confident? - Leading Sapiens, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.leadingsapiens.com/leaders-confidence-effectiveness/
Why Confidence in Leadership Matters and How to Strengthen It - Energage, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.energage.com/confidence-in-leadership/
The Power of Confidence: A Key Ingredient for Effective Leadership - Arti Halai, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.artihalai.com/the-power-of-confidence-a-key-ingredient-for-effective-leadership/
How Leaders Build Trust | Harvard Business Publishing, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.harvardbusiness.org/good-leadership-it-all-starts-with-trust/
Top 5 Reasons First-Time Managers Need Leadership Training - Jaro Education, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.jaroeducation.com/blog/5-reasons-why-leadership-training-is-essential-for-first-time-managers/
Developing Self-Confidence as a Leader | Management 3.0, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://management30.com/blog/self-confidence/
Top Leadership Development Initiatives Examples for Aspiring Leaders - Join The Collective, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.jointhecollective.com/article/top-leadership-development-initiatives-examples-for-aspiring-leaders/
12 Practical Leadership Development Strategies in 2025 - INTOO, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.intoo.com/us/blog/leadership-development-strategies/
Emerging Leader Program | A Turnkey Curriculum - Business Training Experts, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://businesstrainingexperts.com/training/emerging-leaders/
6 Companies with Best Leadership Development Programs: How to ..., accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.deel.com/blog/companies-with-best-leadership-development-programs/
Emerging Leaders | Harvard Kennedy School, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.hks.harvard.edu/educational-programs/executive-education/emerging-leaders
Emerging Leaders Program - Next Shift Learning, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.nextshiftlearning.com/emerging-leaders-program
Proving the Value of Leadership Development: Case Studies from Top Leadership Development Programs - ROI Institute, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://roiinstitute.net/product/proving-the-value-of-leadership-development-case-studies-from-top-leadership-development-programs/
ROI of Leadership Development | DDI, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.ddiworld.com/blog/roi-of-leadership-development
The benefits of developing leaders from within - Learning Pool, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://learningpool.com/blog/the-benefits-of-developing-leaders-from-within
6 Examples of Incredible Leadership Development Programs (+ How You Can Develop Your Leaders), accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.togetherplatform.com/blog/examples-of-leadership-development-programs
5 Key Benefits of a Leadership Training Program, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://blog.unleashresults.com/leader-training-development
Case Studies: Organizations That Successfully Improved ROI Through Training - Psicosmart, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://psico-smart.com/en/blogs/blog-case-studies-organizations-that-successfully-improved-roi-through-training-162922
Why Managers Should Involve Their Team in the Decision-Making Process - HBS Online, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://online.hbs.edu/blog/post/team-decision-making
www.pdwgroup.co.uk, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.pdwgroup.co.uk/blog/leadership-first-time-managers#:~:text=Leadership%20training%20will%20help%20to,team%20with%20their%20organisation's%20goals.
The Accidental Managers: How Untrained Leadership Can Damage Companies, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://rdltraining.com/leadership/the-accidental-managers-how-untrained-leadership-can-damage-companies/
Increased Productivity: Benefits of Leadership Training - World Consulting Group, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.worldconsulting.group/leadership-training-benefits-increased-productivity
4 Reasons Why Leadership Training Matters, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://cpe.ucdavis.edu/news/4-reasons-why-leadership-training-matters
Not Training Leaders? Here's What You're Risking | Phil Van Hooser vanhooser.com, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://vanhooser.com/training-leaders/
Successful Examples Of Leadership Development Initiatives - FasterCapital, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://fastercapital.com/topics/successful-examples-of-leadership-development-initiatives.html
Impact of Leadership Development Workshops in Facilitating Team-Based Practice Transformation - PMC, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6821575/
First-Time Manager Training and Support: Why It's Essential - INTOO, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.intoo.com/us/blog/first-time-manager-training/
Why Join an Emerging Leaders Program and its importance., accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.developingleaders.com.au/why-join-an-emerging-leaders-program/
10 Inspiring Examples of Leadership Development - Join The Collective, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.jointhecollective.com/article/10-inspiring-examples-of-leadership-development/
Leadership Training Program Case Study | IMPACT Group, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://impactgrouphr.com/business/casestudy/leadership-training/
The real consequences of poor leadership development - OnPoint Consulting, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.onpointconsultingllc.com/blog/the-real-consequences-of-poor-leadership-development
7 Skills Your Emerging Leader Development Program Must Build, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://blog.blueoceanbrain.com/blog/7-skills-for-leadership-development
ING: An Emerging Leaders Case Study | Impact - Impact International, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.impactinternational.com/case-studies/ing/emerging-leaders-ing
5 Ways Ineffective Training Hurts Companies - Walden University, accessed on March 19, 2025, https://www.waldenu.edu/online-masters-programs/ms-in-human-resource-management/resource/five-ways-ineffective-training-hurts-companies