Experiences that develop leadership capabilities

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to answer the research question: what recent experiences – other than undertaking training and development programmes – do mature managers and professionals regard as important for their development as leaders? Design/methodology/approach A survey was issued to mature managers and professionals, asking them to rate the contribution of certain experiences to their recent development of leadership capabilities, and to provide qualitative data on the most important experiences. Findings The experience that was rated most highly in developing leadership capabilities was “tackling a significant challenge or challenges”, followed by “taking, or contributing to, major decisions”, and then by “taking on new responsibilities”. Controlled interventions such as coaching/mentoring, appraisal feedback, and temporary new responsibilities were awarded relatively low ratings. Research limitations/implications The sample was drawn from graduates of an executive master’s degree, who are likely to have positive attitudes to self-development and to learning from experience. Practical implications The findings can be used to help mature leaders, and those who facilitate leadership development, to identify and use experiences that may develop leadership capabilities. Originality/value There are few recent studies on the kinds of experiences that are perceived to develop leadership capabilities of mature managers and professionals.