Note: the Seven Key Questions are presented in Practical Lessons in Leadership by Petty and Petro. The content here is expanded based on feedback received since the book’s publication in July ’07.
One of the fundamental tasks of any leader is to identify and develop his/her leadership bench strength. In the ideal situation, the leader is watching her associates for signs of effective informal leadership skills, and then providing developmental assignments to those individuals interested in moving into more formal leadership roles. In this case, the aspiring leader gains valuable context for the role and challenges of leading and the manager is able to provide feedback and coaching.
Another scenario occurs when individual contributors or early career professionals recognize the potential benefits of a leadership role (usually it’s about money or title), and declare to their manager that they are ready to lead a team. Ask any experienced leader if they have been on the receiving end of someone walking into their office and making this declaration, and the leader will likely smile.
In either situation, the leader in charge can benefit from some simple but powerful questions to guide the ensuing discussions and activities.
Follow Us