Top Resources for Managers – Boost Leadership Skills

According to a 2021 Gallup report, only 20% of employees feel engaged at work, and low engagement costs companies $8.1 trillion per year. To enhance leadership skills and foster team success, managers can utilize a variety of resources. Whether you’re starting your first job or managing a tough team, these resources for leadership development can help you thrive both personally and professionally.

Key Takeaways:

• Investing in leadership development is essential for managers to succeed.
• Empathy and effective communication are crucial for effective leadership.
• Continuous learning and personal development contribute to long-term growth.
• Team building and problem-solving skills are vital for successful leadership.
• Inclusive leadership and emotional intelligence foster an inclusive work environment.

Leadership Resources for Empathy

Empathy plays a crucial role in effective leadership, as it can improve innovation, engagement, retention, and inclusivity. However, a lack of empathy from bosses has led 54% of employees to leave their jobs. To become a more empathetic and authentic leader, consider utilizing the following resources:

The Radical Candor Framework

Radical Candor is a leadership philosophy developed by Kim Scott that encourages leaders to provide honest feedback while also showing they care personally about their team members. This framework helps leaders build stronger relationships and foster an environment of open communication and trust.

No Straight Path Podcast

The No Straight Path podcast, hosted by Mike Sevilla and Dr. Ted Eytan, explores topics related to healthcare, leadership, and empathy. Through insightful conversations and interviews, this podcast offers valuable perspectives on building empathy in leadership and navigating complex professional journeys.

LinkedIn Learning Courses

LinkedIn Learning offers a range of courses focused on empathy, emotional intelligence, and leadership development. From “Building Empathy in Teams” to “Leading with Emotional Intelligence,” these courses provide practical strategies and techniques to cultivate empathy and enhance leadership skills.

TED Radio Hour Podcast

TED Radio Hour, a podcast hosted by Guy Raz, features TED Talks on various topics, including empathy. Listening to thought-provoking talks by renowned speakers can broaden your understanding of empathy and inspire you to integrate it into your leadership approach.

Blinkist Mobile App

The Blinkist app provides key insights and summaries from popular non-fiction books, including titles related to leadership and empathy. With its bite-sized content, Blinkist offers a convenient way to access valuable information and learn from experts in a time-efficient manner.

By incorporating these empathy resources into your leadership journey, you can foster a more empathetic and authentic leadership style, creating a positive impact on your team and organization.

Leadership Resources for Communication

Effective communication is a vital skill for leaders, as it plays a crucial role in team productivity and organizational success. However, many businesses struggle with ineffective communication, resulting in significant financial losses. In fact, it is estimated that businesses lose up to $1.2 trillion a year due to communication inefficiencies. Surprisingly, only 19% of employees believe that leadership effectively communicates within their organization.

To address this challenge and enhance leadership communication skills, various resources are available to managers. These resources provide valuable guidance and tools to improve communication effectiveness, enabling leaders to convey their messages clearly, facilitate understanding, and foster a collaborative work environment.

Toastmasters

Toastmasters is an internationally recognized organization that offers communication and leadership development programs. Through Toastmasters, leaders can improve their public speaking, presentation, and interpersonal communication skills. The organization provides a supportive environment where members can practice and receive constructive feedback, making it an ideal resource for leaders seeking to enhance their communication abilities.

Rapport Leadership Training

Rapport Leadership Training offers immersive leadership development programs designed to improve communication skills. The training focuses on building rapport, active listening, and effective questioning techniques. By participating in Rapport Leadership Training, leaders can cultivate stronger connections with their team members, establish trust, and create a culture of open and honest communication.

Bunch Coaching App

The Bunch coaching app leverages technology to provide leaders with personalized coaching for effective communication. Through the app, leaders can access virtual coaching sessions, interactive exercises, and tailored feedback. Bunch enables leaders to develop their communication skills in a convenient and flexible manner, making it an excellent resource for busy professionals.

Simon Sinek’s InspireU Courses

Simon Sinek, a renowned leadership expert, offers InspireU courses that focus on various aspects of leadership, including communication. These courses provide valuable insights and frameworks to help leaders communicate their vision, inspire their teams, and create a sense of purpose within the organization. By incorporating Simon Sinek’s teachings, leaders can enhance their communication skills and create a positive impact on their team’s engagement and performance.

MindTools Club

MindTools is an online platform offering a wide range of resources for leadership development, including communication tools and techniques. MindTools Club provides access to practical articles, videos, and interactive learning modules that can help leaders improve their communication skills. With its comprehensive library, leaders can continually expand their knowledge and stay updated on the latest communication strategies and best practices.

By utilizing these communication resources, leaders can enhance their communication skills and become more effective in conveying their messages, building rapport with their team members, and fostering a collaborative work environment.

Leadership Resources for Personal Development

Continuous personal development is vital for managers seeking to stay ahead in their careers. To facilitate personal growth and enhance leadership skills, there are various resources available.

Online platforms like Coursera, Lynda from LinkedIn, and Alison offer a plethora of personal development resources, including certificate programs. These platforms provide flexible and affordable options for individuals to acquire new skills and knowledge, ensuring they remain competitive in the ever-evolving business landscape.

Additionally, mentors, advisors, and coaches can provide tailored guidance and support for personal development. These experienced professionals offer valuable insights, helping managers identify areas for improvement and providing strategies for self-improvement.

Renowned authors like Dale Carnegie, Brené Brown, and Simon Sinek have authored books that delve into personal and leadership development. These books offer valuable insights and strategies for managers seeking to enhance their professional growth and leadership self-improvement.

Podcasts, blogs, and websites by experts such as Tim Ferriss, John Maxwell, or Harvard Business Review provide a wealth of information on the latest trends and research in leadership and personal development. Through engaging interviews and thought-provoking articles, these resources offer valuable inspiration, ideas, and guidance.

Attending leadership conferences, workshops, and retreats is another powerful way to embark on personal development journeys. These organized events provide hands-on training, networking opportunities, and exposure to new ideas and perspectives, further fostering professional growth.

By leveraging these leadership resources for personal development, managers can cultivate their skills, broaden their perspectives, and ensure continuous professional growth.

Leadership Resources for Team Building

Building a strong and cohesive team is crucial for effective leadership. Cultivating teamwork and collaboration among team members can lead to increased productivity and better overall performance. To support team building efforts, there are various resources available that can provide valuable guidance and techniques.

One of the most effective ways to promote team building is through engaging team building activities. These activities can range from outdoor adventures to problem-solving challenges, helping team members develop trust, communication, and problem-solving skills. They create opportunities for team members to work together towards a common goal, fostering a sense of camaraderie and unity.

Leadership programs and workshops also serve as excellent resources for team building. These programs provide insightful training on effective team management, collaboration techniques, and conflict resolution strategies. They equip leaders with the skills necessary to build and sustain high-performing teams, enhancing overall team dynamics and productivity.

Leadership Resources for Team Building:

1. Team building activities
2. Leadership programs and workshops

Additionally, online platforms like the HubSpot Academy, American Management Association (AMA), and various other organizations offer a wide range of training courses and resources specifically designed for team management. These courses cover topics such as effective communication, problem-solving, and fostering collaboration. They provide leaders with practical tools and knowledge to effectively lead their teams.

One popular resource for team building is the HubSpot Academy, which offers a variety of free and fee-based training courses. These courses cover topics like effective team management, collaboration techniques, and fostering a positive team culture.

These resources play a crucial role in equipping leaders with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively manage teams and foster collaboration. By investing in team building resources, leaders can create a positive and high-performing team culture that drives success.

Leadership Resources for Problem-Solving

Effective leaders possess strong problem-solving skills, which enable them to navigate challenges and make sound decisions. To enhance your problem-solving abilities, there are various resources available that focus on critical thinking and decision-making techniques. These valuable problem-solving resources can equip you with the tools and strategies necessary to tackle complex issues and drive innovation in your organization.

Online Courses

If you’re looking to develop your critical thinking skills and enhance your problem-solving capabilities, online courses can be a great resource. Platforms like LinkedIn Learning and MindTools offer comprehensive courses specifically designed to improve critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. These courses provide practical frameworks and methodologies that can help you approach problems from different perspectives and find effective solutions.

Think Tanks

Think tanks are renowned for their research and thought leadership in various fields, including problem-solving. Institutions such as The Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs and Brookings Institution offer valuable insights and solutions to complex problems. Their reports, analyses, and recommendations can provide you with a broader understanding of the challenges you may encounter as a leader and help you develop innovative approaches to problem-solving.

Volunteering Opportunities

Engaging in volunteering activities not only allows you to make a positive impact on the community but also helps develop your problem-solving skills. Volunteering often involves addressing various challenges and finding creative solutions with limited resources. By volunteering, you can strengthen your critical thinking abilities, adaptability, and resilience, which are essential for effective problem-solving in any context.

Utilize these problem-solving resources to enhance your critical thinking skills, expand your decision-making techniques, and become a more effective leader. With the ability to identify and resolve complex issues, you can drive innovation, overcome obstacles, and achieve success in your professional endeavors.

Leadership Resources for Strategic Thinking

Strategic thinking is a vital skill for long-term success in leadership roles. It involves the ability to analyze complex situations, identify opportunities, and make informed decisions that align with the organization’s vision and goals. To enhance your strategic thinking abilities, consider utilizing the following resources:

1. Books: “Good to Great” by Jim Collins and “Principles” by Ray Dalio provide valuable insights into effective strategic thinking. These books offer practical frameworks and real-world examples that can inspire and guide your strategic decision-making process.
2. Podcasts: “The Tim Ferriss Show” and “The Growth Show” feature interviews with strategic thinkers from various industries. These podcasts offer valuable insights, personal stories, and strategic approaches to help you develop your own visionary leadership style.
3. Conferences and Workshops: Industry-specific conferences and workshops, such as Ernst & Young’s Strategic Growth Forum and Insights Leadership Conference, provide opportunities to learn from renowned experts in strategic thinking and long-term planning. These events offer a platform to network, exchange ideas, and gain practical knowledge.

By leveraging these strategic thinking resources, you can enhance your visionary leadership skills, improve long-term planning, and make informed decisions that drive your team and organization towards success.

Leadership Resources for Change Management

Effective change management is crucial for leaders as organizations navigate through transitions. Adapting to change requires strong leadership skills that can guide teams and individuals through uncertain times. To develop these skills, leaders can access a variety of change management resources that provide valuable insights and strategies for leading through change.

Workshops and Retreats

Workshops and retreats focused on change management offer hands-on training and experiential learning opportunities. These immersive experiences allow leaders to understand the dynamics of change, learn effective change management techniques, and practice implementing them in a supportive environment.

Blogs and Think Tanks

Blogs like Leadership Freak and Think Tanks like the Atlantic Council provide valuable insights into change management strategies. These platforms offer articles, case studies, and thought-provoking content that can help leaders gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities presented by change. By staying informed and learning from industry experts, leaders can develop the knowledge and skills needed to navigate change successfully.

“Change is the only constant in life. Adaptability and flexibility are essential qualities for leaders who want to thrive in a rapidly changing world.” – John C. Maxwell

Change management is not just about managing processes and systems; it also requires leading and supporting individuals through personal transitions. By utilizing these resources, leaders can enhance their adaptability skills and effectively guide their teams through change, ensuring a smooth transition and ultimately driving organizational success.

Leadership Resources for Inclusive Leadership

Inclusive leadership is crucial for creating a diverse and inclusive work environment. By embracing diversity and fostering a sense of belonging, inclusive leaders can unleash the full potential of their teams. Here are some valuable resources to enhance your inclusive leadership skills:

1. Online Courses on Unconscious Bias

Gain a deeper understanding of unconscious bias and learn strategies to mitigate its impact with these online courses:

• Inclusive Leadership: Building Workplace Equality on Coursera
• Unconscious Bias in the Workplace on LinkedIn Learning

2. Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging

Expand your knowledge and skills in diversity, inclusion, and belonging with these resources:

• Diversity and Inclusion at Work by Interaction Associates
• The Diversity and Inclusion Handbook by Sondra Thiederman

These resources provide practical insights and actionable strategies for fostering an inclusive culture.

3. Building Understanding and Agreement through Collaboration

Collaboration is key to inclusive leadership. The Interaction Associates offer valuable insights and training on building understanding and agreement through collaboration.

“When leaders truly collaborate, they create an environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and everyone feels heard and included.” – Interaction Associates

By implementing these collaborative approaches, you can create a workplace that embraces different perspectives and promotes inclusivity.

Remember, inclusive leadership is an ongoing journey. Continuously exploring and expanding your understanding of diversity and cultural competency will help you become a more effective and inclusive leader.

Leadership Resources for Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence is a critical skill for effective leadership. It encompasses self-awareness, empathy, and the ability to communicate effectively. Developing emotional intelligence can lead to better relationships, increased team productivity, and improved decision-making.

Here are some valuable resources that can help you enhance your emotional intelligence:

1. Daniel Goleman’s book “Emotional Intelligence” – This classic book provides insights and strategies for developing emotional intelligence. Goleman explores the five components of emotional intelligence and offers practical tips for improving your self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills.
2. Susan Mazza’s blog “Random Acts of Leadership” – As a renowned leadership expert, Mazza shares valuable articles and resources on emotional intelligence. Her blog offers actionable advice on developing self-awareness and empathy, fostering positive relationships, and building emotional resilience as a leader.
3. “The Carey Nieuwhof Leadership Podcast” – This podcast features interviews with influential leaders who emphasize the importance of emotional intelligence. Gain insights and learn from their experiences in applying emotional intelligence principles in various leadership contexts.
4. “Boss Files” – Hosted by CNN’s Poppy Harlow, this podcast showcases conversations with successful leaders who prioritize emotional intelligence. Explore the stories and strategies of leaders who have achieved remarkable results by leveraging their emotional intelligence skills.

“Emotional intelligence is not only a fundamental skill for effective leadership but also a powerful catalyst for personal and professional growth. By investing in your emotional intelligence, you can create a positive and productive work environment, foster strong relationships, and inspire others to reach their full potential.”

To continue developing your emotional intelligence, explore these resources and incorporate their wisdom into your leadership journey.

Leadership Resources for Continuous Learning

Continuous learning is an essential component of successful leadership. By investing in ongoing skill development, managers can stay relevant and adapt to the ever-changing business landscape. Whether you’re looking to enhance your leadership abilities, expand your knowledge, or develop a growth mindset, there are numerous resources available to support your continuous learning journey.

Online Learning Platforms

Online platforms like Coursera and LinkedIn Learning offer a wide range of courses specifically designed to facilitate lifelong learning. These platforms provide access to courses on a variety of topics, including leadership development, strategic thinking, communication skills, and more. With the flexibility to learn at your own pace and from renowned instructors, these platforms are valuable resources for self-improvement.

Blogs and Websites

Leadership experts like Seth Godin and Tom Peters share their valuable insights and inspiration through their blogs and websites. These platforms offer articles, interviews, and thought-provoking content that can stimulate your thinking and provide practical tips for effective leadership. By regularly reading and engaging with these resources, you can gain new perspectives and continuously expand your knowledge.

Real-Time Feedback Tools

Real-time feedback tools like CareerLark can be instrumental in your leadership development journey. These tools provide ongoing feedback from peers, subordinates, and supervisors, allowing you to identify areas for improvement and track your progress. By leveraging these tools, you can gain valuable insights into your leadership strengths and weaknesses and take proactive steps towards growth and development.

By incorporating these continuous learning resources into your routine, you can develop a lifelong learning mindset and continually evolve as a leader. Remember, leadership is a journey of growth and self-improvement, and by embracing continuous learning, you can stay at the forefront of effective leadership practices.

Conclusion

Investing in your leadership skills as a manager is crucial for personal growth and team success. By utilizing a wide range of resources, such as empathy, communication, personal development, team-building, problem-solving, strategic thinking, change management, inclusive leadership, emotional intelligence, and continuous learning, you can enhance your managerial expertise.

Whether you prefer reading books, listening to podcasts, taking courses, or attending conferences, there are endless opportunities for growth and improvement. Explore managerial skill-building resources like Dale Carnegie’s impactful books, Simon Sinek’s inspiring TED Talks, leadership courses on LinkedIn Learning, or the insights shared on Harvard Business Review’s website.

Equip yourself with the necessary leadership development tools to navigate the challenges of managing a team and foster a positive, productive work environment. By continually honing your skills, you can become an effective and influential leader that inspires and empowers those around you.

Source Links

• https://www.calendar.com/blog/leadership-resources-you-can-use-at-any-point-in-your-career/
• https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/leadership-resources
• https://www.topresume.com/career-advice/free-leadership-training-resources