By: Cindy Theriault, PCC, CPHR, MIR
Leadership training is more than just a box to check—it’s a powerful way to shape organizational culture. When leaders are consistently developed and supported, they inspire their teams, foster collaboration, and drive meaningful change.
The Ripple Effect of Leadership Training
Leadership training directly affects employee engagement and job satisfaction. Leaders who communicate well and align team goals with organizational objectives create a shared purpose that boosts productivity and sparks innovation. For instance, a leader skilled in communication can bridge silos, build trust, and ensure employees feel connected to their work.
Even small, consistent leadership behaviors can spark larger cultural shifts. Imagine a leader who regularly acknowledges team milestones—whether through a heartfelt thank you or a casual pizza party. These simple acts of recognition keep morale high and motivate employees. Over time, they build a culture of appreciation and trust, where top performers thrive and choose to stay. The result? A stronger organization with a solid foundation for succession planning.
Lessons from the Field
Leadership training transforms workplace culture. One client’s engagement survey scores improved by 10 to 30 per cent after introducing regular recognition rituals.
On the flip side, neglecting leadership development can foster dysfunction, disengagement, and turnover. Untrained leaders, even with good intentions, may unintentionally create a dysfunctional culture. As the saying goes, “Culture eats strategy for lunch.” Without strong leadership, even the best-laid plans can falter.
Practical Steps to Get Started
For organizations new to leadership development, here are simple, actionable steps:
- Schedule regular one-on-ones focusing on employees’ personal growth and well-being, not just their tasks.
- Show appreciation with small gestures such as personalized thank you notes or verbal acknowledgments.
- Provide team members with opportunities to lead special projects to help them grow and feel valued.
Starting the conversation about leadership development is key. Identifying critical skills and building tailored strategies can help organizations make immediate and lasting improvements.
A Tailored Approach to Leadership Development
What sets Plum Leadership Group apart is our ability to meet organizations where they are. Every organization faces unique challenges, and our programs are designed to address these specific needs while positioning leaders for long-term success. Our Power Hour, for example, offers focused, practical sessions that allow busy leaders to quickly sharpen their skills and apply them immediately.
Leadership That Builds Culture
Leadership training is about more than just skills—it’s about fostering a thriving culture. By aligning leadership practices with organizational values and creating an environment of trust and recognition, organizations can drive meaningful change. Even small, consistent adjustments in leadership behavior can build a workplace culture where employees feel valued, engaged, and ready to contribute to collective success.
