Are future leaders born or made?

Are future leaders born or made?

One of the most asked questions about leadership is whether future leaders are born or made.

There have been many studies conducted in this area with most research by psychologists concluding that on the whole leaders are ‘mostly made.' The studies generally conclude that leadership is about one third nature and two thirds made or developed.

So, what are the skills required to lead and how can be they developed?

The ability to effectively lead, motivate and direct a group of people requires a very complex set of skills. These skills are mostly acquired through experiences and self-development, which mentoring can play a significant role in developing.

Mentoring relationships provide a platform for aspiring leaders to learn from experienced leaders, to receive guidance and develop important attributes that are crucial for effective leadership.

Here's how mentoring can contribute to leadership development:

1. Knowledge transfer: Mentoring allows futures leaders to tap into the knowledge, experience, and insights of more seasoned leaders. Mentors can share practical wisdom, real-world examples, and lessons learned from their own leadership journeys. This knowledge transfer helps future leaders gain a broader perspective on various leadership challenges and how to navigate them.

2. Skill enhancement: Leadership involves a diverse set of skills, including communication, decision-making, problem-solving, emotional intelligence, and many more. Mentors can provide targeted guidance and resources to help future leaders improve these skills. Through regular interactions and feedback, future leaders can refine their abilities and become more effective leaders.

3. Confidence building: A mentor’s encouragement and belief in a future leaders’ potential can boost their confidence. As future leaders receive constructive feedback and witness their growth over time, they gain the confidence to step into leadership roles and take on greater responsibilities.

4. Networking and exposure: Mentoring often includes introductions to the mentor's professional network. This exposure allows future leaders to connect with influential individuals, expand their knowledge base, and gain insights from diverse perspectives. Networking is a crucial aspect of leadership, and mentors can help future leaders establish valuable connections.

5. Personalised development plans: A mentor can help future leaders identify their strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. Together, they can create personalised development plans that focus on enhancing leadership competencies.

6. Role modelling: Mentors serve as role models for future leaders. By observing their mentor's behaviour, decision-making processes, and ethical standards, future leaders can learn about the qualities that make effective leaders. This role modelling can shape the mentees own leadership style and approach.

7. Navigating challenges: Leadership often involves navigating complex situations and challenges. Mentors can provide guidance on how to handle tough decisions, manage conflicts, and maintain resilience in the face of adversity. Learning from a mentor's experiences can prepare future leaders to handle similar situations more effectively.

8. Continuous learning: Leadership is an ongoing journey that requires continuous learning and adaptation. Mentoring relationships provide a platform for future leaders to engage in reflective discussions, seek advice, and stay updated on industry trends. This commitment to lifelong learning is essential for successful leadership.

9. Feedback and accountability: Mentors offer valuable feedback on performance, behaviours, and decisions. This feedback helps future leaders identify areas for improvement and make necessary adjustments. Moreover, mentors can hold future leaders accountable for their goals and commitments, ensuring they stay on track with their leadership development plans.

10. Support and encouragement: Leadership roles can be demanding and at times isolating. Having a mentor to lean on for support, encouragement, and guidance can make a significant difference in a leadership journey. The mentor’s presence can provide a sense of reassurance and motivation during challenging times.

In conclusion, mentoring provides a nurturing environment for leadership development by offering knowledge, skills, confidence, networking opportunities, personalised guidance, and emotional support. Through these interactions, future leaders can cultivate the qualities and capabilities necessary to become effective and impactful future leaders.

Would you support a future leader in developing their leadership skills? Sign up as a mentor on our mentor platform today.

Could you be a future leader? Get the support you need to succeed by connecting to a mentor who can support you in your journey. Sign up as a mentee on our mentor platform today.