When it comes to workplace satisfaction, employees continually rate “strong leadership” among one of the most important factors. However, according to the “Top Management and Performance Challenges Facing Multiple Federal Agencies” report released by the Council of the Inspectors General, providing leadership continuity is a key area of concern in the coming years. The report states that, “High turnover of leadership positions, a large number of vacant key leadership positions, and an abundance of executive and senior management employees eligible to retire in the next 5 years can affect Federal agencies’ ability to meet mission-critical objectives and statutory responsibilities.”
The FDIC is a stark example: 60% of FDIC executives and managers are eligible to retire within the next 5 years. That’s a lot of experience and knowledge that could potentially be leaving. And so many other agencies are facing an immediate crisis of leadership. The Treasure Department has cited immediate concerns over leadership positions in its Office of Terrorism and Financial Intelligence that have remained unfilled. These are just a few examples of why identifying and developing future leaders through effective and robust training programs is so important.
Why Is Strong Leadership Important? It’s such an important question, but when we get bogged down by the day to day of just trying to get everything done, it often goes unanswered. After all, if projects are being accomplished on time, that’s all that really matters, right? Leadership is more than just making sure employees are churning out work. Strong, effective leadership is needed to attract, inspire, and ultimately retain team members.
Leadership can come naturally for some, but it’s not necessarily innate. Like most roles, it takes development and training to bring out the best in current and future leaders. One of the most effective ways to implement leadership development is through coaching. Coaches can help individuals hone in on their distinct leadership style, learn how to best manage different personalities, deal with conflict and become more confident in their role. And that’s just the start.
Does your organization have a plan in place to develop your future leaders? Leah M Joppy and Associates can work with you to cultivate strong, consistent leadership within your agency. Call us at 301-670-0051 or email leah@lmja.com to learn more.