How to Create a Leadership Development Program
(via Inc. magazine, 7/26) What kind of magic does the Walt Disney Companyuse to keep its large and sprawling staff of smiley, friendly, and competent workers all on the same page … and keep them all smiling?
Contrary to popular belief, it’s not the pixie dust. What’s actually responsible is a robust and internationally recognized leadership program that aims to carry on the virtues first established by Walt and Roy Disney 80 years ago.
“Our guests are more likely to return based on our interactions with cast members who are more prepared, more willing, if they have great leadership that supports them,” says Bruce Jones, the programming coordinator for the Disney Institute, which started as in-house training for Disney company staff and has expanded to offer training and development for outside organizations.
In other words, Disney learned quickly that internal leadership development was crucial to success.
What kind of leadership program is right for your business? Experts say internal development is often something that gets axed as businesses look for ways to save money. But they say overlooking the value of cultivating your own in-house talent can be a fatal mistake. Leadership programs help ease the chain of succession, make employees feel more connected to the business, and can transfer good ideas from one section of your company to the whole organization.
READ THE REST, but do it on your own accord as a leader not a follower
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