After years of navigating an uncertain economic landscape, the survey spotlights the critical need of leaders to focus ON their businesses, rather than in the day-to-day, through the shaping of growth plans; securing buy-in and empowering the wider team.
Leaders are increasingly prioritising effective communication of their vision, developing autonomy in decision-making and nurturing future talent through robust succession planning. This signals a pronounced shift towards strategic leadership, necessitating a shift in mindset and personal discipline.
Delegation and empowerment emerge as linchpins for leaders aiming to elevate their focus to broader, strategic perspectives; with nearly 50% of respondents identifying the personal goal of wanting to work ON the business instead of in it.
Notably, 39% of leaders report having growth plans, yet grapple with challenges in achieving stability, underscoring the importance of adept problem-solving techniques and execution.
In this transformative journey, independent coaches and facilitators play a pivotal role. Offering diverse perspectives, fresh insights, and the courage to address underlying issues, these professionals ensure meetings remain focused on strategic goals, foster expansive thinking and promote inclusive decision-making processes.
Investment in people has been identified as a predominant area for delivery of growth plans in 2024. Whilst investment in systems and products remains essential, there’s a growing acknowledgment that nurturing talent and cultivating strong leadership are indispensable for a business to flourish.
In summary, unlocking leadership potential hinges on developing and empowering others, facilitating a shift from working in the business to working ON it. Engaging an independent coach can be an invaluable resource for guiding organisations along this trajectory towards sustained success.