How building leaders can create a greater employee experience

Are leaders born or bred? Is great leadership a trait or a process? 

The age-old nature versus nurture debate is irrelevant. It doesn’t matter why someone is a leader. The important thing is the impact they have on the people and organisation they are leading. 

Great leadership can drive engagement and retention. It really is that simple.

Effective leaders, whether born or bred, will make people want to work for their organisation now and in the future. They can positively affect the employee experience. 

How to use leadership skills to engage and retain talent

A workplace that offers career progression is attractive for many jobseekers and sometimes a prerequisite when assessing potential employment. A leader who encourages professional development and puts actions into place is likely to engage top talent.

According to Active Citizens, a good leader develops leaders, not followers. We all have the potential to lead, at whatever level and responsibility is appropriate. A good leader will recognise potential leaders within their organisation and nurture their abilities.

Regardless of whether someone is a born leader, everyone has the capacity to learn and upskill. Career progression is something employers can offer to retain current employees and attract new talent. 

How to hone your leadership skills

According to a study, Point/Counterpoint: Are Outstanding Leaders Born or Made?, 30% of leadership traits are derived from genetics or an innate predisposition, while 70% are developed over time. Lived experiences and the drive to lead are enough to progress into a leadership position, as long as you continue to hone your skills along the way.

If you're not a natural leader, here are some tips to make people think you were born that way! 

Embrace self-learning

‘Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other’. John F. Kennedy said this 60 years ago but it’s more true and relevant than ever.

Good leadership involves constant learning and evolution. Leaders should make time to learn, whether that be by reading, listening, consuming content and even attending courses.

Stay relevant

Social media is a great way to stay on top of what’s happening in your industry. Do your research to find out what the current trends are, and look for ways to incorporate new ideas.

Be a role model

Applied Corporate Governance discusses how leadership and learning seek to balance humility. A leader must recognise how much there is to learn and act on it. Leaders must possess the self-confidence needed to gain the trust of the people around them. As long as these things are in balance, you will be a good role model for your organisation, community and family.

Lead by example (and with your actions)

Leading by example is a way of providing leadership without unnecessary noise. Grandiose speeches and big gestures are not needed when your actions speak louder than words. People will naturally want to follow you when you’re doing something well and will be inspired to do better. An organisation’s success is the reflection of its people. For current employees, being part of that success is an incentive to stay working with you. 

Visualise the bigger picture 

Leaders have a vision. They know what needs to be done to achieve business goals. Communicate your vision, and motivate your team to reach those goals.

Wrapping up

Leaders are not just corporate suits or the head of the table in a board meeting. Leaders are everywhere. Sometimes, they’re not as obvious and may fall into the shadows of others.

A great leader will see other leaders. They understand how to help others reach their full potential as future leaders of their organisation. They develop those around them to enrich their employee experience and build a solid foundation for business success.

For more insights on how to create a great employee experience, reach out to the Heart Talent team.