Business leaders, what is one way to develop business leadership skills?

Question

Unlocking the secrets to successful business leadership, this article taps into the wisdom of industry veterans. Learn practical strategies and actionable advice to hone your leadership skills, directly from those who have paved the way. These insights are essential for anyone looking to strengthen their leadership abilities and advance their career.

Gearl Loden · Answer

One of the most powerful ways I've found to develop business leadership--both personally and across our team--is by leaning into the 70/20/10 learning model. It's simple, research-backed, and incredibly effective when used with intention.
Here's how it works:70% of our growth comes from doing the work--from those stretch assignments, tough calls, daily decisions, and the unpredictable moments that demand we rise to the occasion.20% comes from relationships--mentorship, coaching, peer-to-peer collaboration, and honest conversations that sharpen our leadership instincts.10% comes from formal learning--books, classes, webinars, and structured training that give us frameworks and fresh thinking.
But I've learned that understanding the model isn't enough. Activating it with purpose is the real game changer.
We're embedding professional development into the work itself.Leadership is no longer something we "go get" at a conference once a year. We're making the work the training. Whether it's leading a tough project, facilitating a feedback session, or navigating change--we treat each moment as a growth opportunity.
We're writing and tracking growth goals.Every leader on our team sets 1-2 intentional growth goals aligned with both their personal leadership journey and our organizational strategy. These goals are living documents--not shelf art--and we revisit them regularly to reflect and adjust.
We're making reflection a habit.We don't grow from experience alone--we grow from reflecting on experience. We've built in weekly and quarterly check-ins to ask ourselves: What did I learn? Where did I lead well? What could I do better next time?
We're investing in mentors and coaches.We know that even the best leaders can't grow in isolation. Mentors share wisdom. Coaches help us untangle tough challenges and move forward with clarity. These relationships have become accelerators for insight and impact.
The result? We're not just doing leadership--we're learning through it. We're seeing confidence rise, collaboration deepen, and strategic thinking sharpen--all without adding another training day to the calendar.
So, if you're asking, "What's one way to develop leadership skills?"--this is my answer:Make growth intentional, job-embedded, and relationship-driven. Use the 70/20/10 model as your blueprint.
The next level of leadership is built in how we work and grow every single day.

Allison Dunn · Answer

The most effective approach I've found is implementing a "learning loop" practice--deliberately tackling situations beyond your current capabilities, followed by immediate reflection and application. I identified financial strategic planning as my weakness and invested in a four-day MBA program focused exclusively on executive financial leadership. What made this successful wasn't just the intensive learning, but how I immediately applied each concept to our company's actual financial challenges between sessions. This targeted approach yielded more growth than years of general leadership programs, improving our financial forecasting accuracy by 27%. I recommend identifying your specific growth edge, then creating a focused learning environment with real stakes and built-in accountability that forces immediate application of new skills--competence follows closely behind deliberate practice.

Erika Frieze · Answer

As a psychologist who built a multi-location practice from the ground up, I've found that creating robust mentorship structures is the most transformative leadership skill. At Bridges of the Mind, we developed APPIC-accredited training programs that simultaneously serve our business growth while developing future leaders. This dual-purpose approach has allowed us to expand to three locations while maintaining clinical excellence.
Invest in systems that align with your values rather than just industry standards. When traditional psychology practices had long waitlists, we created a concierge model for neurodevelopmental assessments that eliminated wait times while better serving our clients' needs. This values-based innovation led to significant contracts and expansion opportunities.
Pursue structured business education outside your specialty. As part of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business National Cohort, I learned to apply business frameworks to mental healthcare that most clinicians never encounter. This cross-disciplinary approach transformed how we scale services while maintaining the human-centered care that defines our practice.
Focus on creating a workplace environment that reflects your ideal client experience. We designed state-of-the-art facilities with neurodiversity-affirming spaces, which not only attract clients but also help us retain top talent in a competitive field. Our team-building culture directly translates to better service delivery and stronger business outcomes.

Tony Nutley · Answer

Leadership is based on deliberate action. Self-awareness is probably the best way to develop leadership skills. Leaders who are aware of their strengths and weaknesses and take responsibility for their behaviors make better choices, communicate more effectively, and gain people's trust.
Steve Jobs was famous for his consistent self-reflection. He recognized his brilliance in vision and innovation but also acknowledged his weaknesses in human relationships. By surrounding himself with people who complemented his weaknesses, he transformed Apple into the global giant it became.
Bill Gates dedicated time to thinking and personal development. He famously observed "think weeks" to get away, introspect, and deepen his knowledge. This practice kept him informed about the latest industry trends and allowed him to make intelligent, strategic decisions.
Self-knowledge begins with honest evaluation. Regular feedback from respected colleagues highlights blind spots. Tools like 360-degree reviews provide valuable information on leadership behavior.
True leadership is not about power. It is about decisiveness, simplicity, and the ability to lead people. The more self-aware leaders are, the more flexible and resilient their leadership will be.

Julian Klenda · Answer

From my experience, great leadership isn't about having all the answers--it's about staying curious, making bold moves, and learning as you go. In business, especially in seafood and e-commerce, things change fast. Markets shift, challenges pop up, and nothing ever goes exactly as planned.
Instead of waiting for the perfect moment, I dive in, tackle problems head-on, and figure things out along the way. The best lessons come from real experiences, not just books or advice. Every challenge teaches me something new, helping me grow into a stronger, sharper leader.
I also believe that leadership is about people, not just profits. A business only thrives when the people behind it feel valued and inspired. I make it a point to listen, encourage fresh ideas, and lead with honesty.
When a team feels supported, they bring their best to the table, and that's when real success happens. Leadership isn't about being the loudest voice in the room--it's about creating an environment where everyone can succeed. The more I invest in people and stay open to new ideas, the better I become at leading a business that lasts.

Trayton Vance · Answer

A coaching style of leadership isn't just a nice-to-have. It's the smartest, most sustainable way to develop real business leadership skills - skills that stick, scale, and strengthen both people and performance.
At its core, coaching-led leadership is about empowering rather than instructing. It's about asking, not telling. And when leaders shift from giving all the answers to unlocking them in others, something powerful happens. People think more deeply. Act more decisively. Grow faster.
The ROI? It's significant--and it shows up in both people and the bottom line.
Leaders who coach build stronger relationships. They foster trust, psychological safety, and a culture of accountability. Their teams are more engaged, more motivated, and more committed to their work. When people feel seen, heard, and supported, they don't just perform--they thrive.
And thriving teams drive results. Increased retention. Higher productivity. Better problem-solving. Faster decision-making. That's not just feel-good leadership--it's commercially smart.
I've worked with countless leaders to help them adopt a coaching approach. Many begin thinking they need to be the expert, the fixer. But once they tap into the power of curiosity, listening, and reflective questioning, they discover something else. Leadership isn't about control. It's about creating the conditions where others can succeed.
This approach doesn't just develop others--it develops the leader too. Coaching builds emotional intelligence, resilience, and adaptability. It sharpens strategic thinking. It strengthens influence. In short, it transforms leaders from doers into enablers.
When embedded into the day-to-day, coaching leadership becomes a catalyst for growth at every level. It nurtures future leaders. It fuels innovation. It reduces burnout. And yes--it delivers measurable impact.
Coaching isn't just a leadership style. It's a business strategy. One that pays off in people, performance, and long-term success.

Matt Bowman · Answer

After almost 18 years in business leadership, I've realized that identifying your style of leadership and then building on it is the best way to develop your business leadership skills. In the early stages of my journey, I discovered my naturally collaborative leadership style -- something that had been evident through my ability to build trust and inclusivity through listening and seeking input. Rather than attempt to replicate more aggressive, top-down styles I had witnessed in the corporate world, I worked to hone my own style of communication that was firm, set expectations, and drove accountability.
So what I did was to ask for feedback from individuals with whom I've worked--team members, peers, or mentors. Patterns will emerge. Are you able to inspire others through your vision? Do you lead by example? Are you the one who makes decisions and builds consensus? Your baseline is a starting point on your growth journey. For instance, once I discovered that I avoided conflict in order to maintain harmony, I focused on providing clearer feedback--still with politeness, but without softening the message. Leadership isn't about leaping to perfection -- it's an awareness of your strengths and an intentionality in your evolution.

Wayne Brown · Answer

Most people think leadership is about making big decisions, giving orders, and having all the answers. This is why so many struggle to be good leaders and end up being dictators instead.
In my 40 years of leading teams across multiple industries, I have seen that leadership comes down to one thing: communication. And no, I do not mean giving motivational speeches or crafting perfect emails. What I mean is the ability to connect with people in a way that earns trust and drives action.
I follow the 4 Cs rule:
Character: People do not follow titles. They follow personalities. Imagine having the presence of Tom Cruise, not the couch-jumping version, but the one who walks into a room and spreads good vibes. If your team looks up to you, they will run through walls for you. If they do not, they will nod in meetings, talk behind your back, and do whatever they want afterward.
Competence: "I'm a man of my word" means nothing if you cannot deliver. A leader does not need to do every job, but they must understand what excellence looks like and hold the team to that standard.
Connection: As Bruce Lee says, "Be like water, my friend." Top leaders want summaries and wins they can report. Mid-management needs clear direction to drive action. Common employees just want to know what affects them. Give them what they need in a way they will actually listen.
Candor: No sugarcoating. No empty praise. Say what needs to be said, when it needs to be said. Be honest with your team, and they will be honest with you.
Leadership is not about power. It is about influence. The better you communicate, the more people listen. And when people listen, things get done.

Kostya Kimlat · Answer

Embrace honest feedback like Spanish magicians.
During my lecture tour in Spain, I witnessed something remarkable. While American magicians often offer polite applause regardless of performance quality, Spanish performers deliver unfiltered critiques that drive real improvement.
I brought this practice home and saw immediate results.
Great leaders, just like great performers, follow this same principle. They actively seek honest assessment rather than surrounding themselves with yes-people.
Try this: At your next meeting, explicitly ask for criticism of your latest decision. Create space for team members to speak truth without fear. When someone offers genuine critique, thank them specifically.
Leaders who hear only praise remain blind to their weaknesses. The fastest growth happens when you value truth over comfort.

Yanik Medor · Answer

One of the most powerful ways to develop strong business leadership is by getting a coach and joining a cohort. I've been an entrepreneur since I was 22, and I've spent nearly a decade coaching other entrepreneurs. If there's one thing I've consistently seen, it's this: our minds are often flooded with a million thoughts, ideas, and worries.
Sometimes, you just need someone outside the fish tank to take a look in and offer a fresh perspective -- someone who's not caught up in your emotions, ego, or routines. Every entrepreneur needs someone in their corner who has nothing to gain or lose from them -- someone who can speak the truth, challenge their assumptions, and call them to higher standards. Business has a sneaky way of surrounding us with yes-men and yes-women. But real growth requires someone who will challenge you to think bigger -- and also pull you back when you're drifting into delusion.
I also believe deeply in being a student of your craft. At times, we forget that being "disciplined" in something means becoming a disciple of it. And disciples never stop learning. They study, they practice, and they expect fruit to come from the time invested. Nothing is stored up just for show -- it's meant to bear results.

Bradford Glaser · Answer

You need to take advantage of networking and making solid relationships. For me, understanding people, tackling complex interactions, and optimizing my connections are what drive successful leadership.
I've personally benefited from networking by gaining pearls of wisdom from seasoned professionals, staying updated on industry changes, and creating partnerships that fuel not just my business but my personal development too. It opens my eyes to fresh perspectives, sharpens my problem-solving prowess, and boosts my ability to adapt, which are traits any top leader should possess.
It's not just about accumulating a bunch of contacts either. Leadership thrives on authentic relationships. This means more than merely showing up; it means being actively involved in industry conversations, contributing to deep discussions in groups, and lending a hand without immediately expecting payback. Using platforms like LinkedIn, attending conferences, and fostering mentorship bonds are fantastic ways to uncover opportunities that might otherwise slip through the cracks. By actively investing time and effort into these meaningful connections, you are paving the way for ongoing success in your leadership journey.

DIANNE CRAMPTON · Answer

One powerful way to develop business leadership skills is to focus on building trust, both in how you lead and how you work with others. Trust turns feedback into a tool for growth instead of a trigger for defensiveness. It transforms collaboration from a task into a culture. Trust empowers teams to solve problems without waiting for direction. When leaders prioritize trust, they create work environments where people take ownership, ideas flow freely, and accountability feels shared. This is much different from top-down directives.
For example, a mid-level manager at a fast-growing tech company noticed that while her team hit deadlines, communication was shallow and feedback was often avoided. Instead of jumping into process fixes, she focused on building trust. She accomplished this by asking more questions, sharing her own challenges, and inviting input on decisions. Over time, team members opened up. One even shared a more efficient system that cut project turnaround time by 20%. The shift didn't come from new tools and shiny baubles. It came from trust and the behaviors that support trust.
Leadership grounded in trust isn't just impactful. It's sustainable. 
When employees feel safe to speak up, take risks, and grow from their mistakes, they become more innovative. You discover they are more committed. They are more aligned with business goals. 
Trust is what turns leadership into influence. It is what transforms good teams into great ones. In an age of constant change, it's not just about adapting faster. Trust is about creating workplaces where people want to adapt, together. And that's what real leadership development looks like that can thrive in the new age of AI.

Cheryl Haynes · Answer

"Enlist a trusted pair of eyes and ears"
Once you have identified a shortlist of key leadership skills that, if enhanced, would align with the vision you've set for your optimal leadership brand, enlist an accountability partner. The only way to truly understand the impact of your skills development efforts is to encourage peers and others who are most apt to see you in action to share real-time observations with you.
I tell all of my coaching clients: the feedback that you receive in the moment or during a meeting is great. The 'great job' or 'thank you' immediately following a presentation is always appreciated. However, it's what people say about you once you leave the room—I call it the "What's on the back of your shirt"—that will inform your opportunities for professional growth. It's the impression that you've left with the people you were there to influence; that is where your opportunity to enhance your skills as a leader resides.

Lorraine Bossé-Smith · Answer

I believe everyone has the ability to lead, but based on our unique wiring, we do it differently. Understanding your specific leadership "personality" helps you tap into your strengths while making you aware of areas in which you are weaker. I use DISC assessments with an emphasis on leadership and communication, and when you combine that with emotional intelligence (EQ), leaders grow by leaps and bounds. Let's face it, leading others is more than saying "Charge!" We must motivate, inspire, guide, and grow others.

LB Adams · Answer

The number one way to develop business leadership skills is to be CURIOUS. Read, listen, explore, and learn how other people are tackling the same issues you're dealing with. Leadership skills are a process that is never-ending because our work is ever-changing. Curiosity ensures that we don't get stagnant and that our skills are evolving as the business landscape evolves.

Daniel Feiman · Answer

The best way to develop business leadership skills is to:
1) Assess the candidate's current skill set via a self-assessment and a management assessment;2) Compare the results to the firm's "Success Profile" or ideal candidate's criteria for the role;3) Perform a "Gap analysis" to calculate the differences between the candidate's current leadership skill level and the ideal;4) Create a personal Development Plan to take the future leader from where they are to where you want them to be.
All of these tools are discussed in detail in "THE Book on Succession Planning Systems: The 30 Secrets to Leadership Development."

Christian Bullas · Answer

I've developed my leadership skills as the owner of Senior Home Care By Angels by really focusing on empathy. In our field, empathy isn't just nice to have; it's essential. Both our clients and our staff deal with challenging emotional and physical demands every single day, and understanding those situations has been crucial for me.
By actively listening to my team and understanding the obstacles they face, I've been able to create a work environment that's both supportive and respectful. Caregivers are on the frontline, working tirelessly and managing the diverse needs of our elderly clients. I make it a point to check in regularly, offer my support, and celebrate their hard work. This approach has helped me build a foundation of trust and loyalty that keeps our team strong.
Empathy plays a significant role in how I make decisions too. When I understand the effects of policies and changes on my staff, I can make smarter, more practical choices. For instance, when I noticed rising concerns about burnout, I decided to revamp our scheduling system. This change didn't just boost morale; it also kept our staff happier, reduced turnover, and improved the level of care we provide.
Improving empathy is a process that happens with time and effort. It involves having genuine conversations, asking the right questions, and showing sincere interest in what people need to thrive. This hands-on practice has completely reshaped my approach to leading.
Ultimately, valuing people is what drives any business forward, especially in caregiving. Leading with empathy doesn't just create a motivated team; it also makes your leadership far more effective.

Lynda Bekore · Answer

Take Initiative. As a leader of a diverse team of business professionals with varied expertise, I've found that teaching team members to take initiative is an essential first step in building leadership skills in others. When you encourage others to go beyond their job descriptions, it builds confidence and promotes innovation. Support proposing new ideas, offering solutions to workflow challenges, or mentoring new hires.
Learn Conflict Resolution. Alternatively, if you're already a leader, a great way to develop your own leadership skills is to learn conflict resolution. Leadership often involves navigating disagreements. Leaders can develop this skill by constructively addressing feedback, mediating between different perspectives, and maintaining professionalism under pressure.

Benjamin Farber · Answer

No matter where you are in your career, there is always room for growth. The best way to develop business leadership skills is through hands-on experience. Take on projects that will push you outside of your comfort zone. If you make a couple of mistakes along the way, view them as valuable business lessons that you can apply moving forward.

Julie Catalano · Answer

One of the most effective ways to grow as a business leader is to lead beyond your function. It's easy to stay in your lane—harder, but more rewarding, is to connect the dots across the organization and understand the broader ecosystem.
Ask to sit in on commercial or product meetings. Get curious about the client experience. Understand how value is created—and how your work contributes to it. That context is what transforms a functional expert into a strategic leader.
And remember: leadership isn't about having all the answers—it's about creating clarity, inspiring trust, and building teams that outperform because they feel supported, stretched, and seen.

David Damico · Answer

One approach to developing business leadership skills is through action learning. This method involves small groups of leaders working together to solve real organizational challenges. It combines practical experience with reflection and group discussion, allowing leaders to develop critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and collaboration skills while delivering tangible business benefits. It allows them to tackle real-world challenges, making the experience relevant and more impactful. Additionally, it gives them extra team-based experience which fosters communication skills.
After these sessions are over, it is important to reflect on the sessions and go through feedback. These experiences are designed for learning, which means that there should be feedback involved so that it is easier to learn and grow while the activity is still fresh.

Gary Bregani · Answer

I make it a priority to be there for my team, ready to listen and grow with them. It's all about opening up the lines of communication. When I actively ask for their feedback and show that every opinion counts, it builds a solid foundation of trust and transparency. This is especially important in roles where teamwork takes the spotlight--like in tech, administrative work, or client services. Hearing what my team has to say helps me spot where we can improve, make our processes smoother, and find innovative solutions to the hurdles we face. I'm always learning--showing that you can admit you don't have all the answers is important for any leader.
To make this effective as a leader, set up a schedule that includes both formal and more relaxed meetings to ensure people get a chance to speak up. During these conversations, make sure to listen attentively, without interrupting anyone or becoming defensive, which makes it clear that it's safe to discuss anything, no matter how challenging. Once you have gathered all their strategies, you can make plans and take action. This might mean changing how you do things or perhaps setting up some additional training sessions. Keeping this feedback loop alive sharpens your leadership skills and shows your team they're genuinely valued and heard.

Mukul Singh · Answer

Honestly, you need to get thrown into the deep end. You don't become a leader by reading books or taking courses--you do it by making real decisions, literally screwing up, learning, trying again, and AGAIN.
One thing that helped me? Taking responsibility for things no one else wanted. That's how you learn to handle pressure, deal with people, and make decisions that actually matter.

What are ways to develop business leadership skills?

What are ways to develop business leadership skills?

Use The 70/20/10 Learning Model

Apply Learning Loop For Growth

Create Robust Mentorship Structures

Develop Self-Awareness Through Reflection

Lead With Curiosity And Bold Moves

Adopt A Coaching Leadership Style

Identify And Build On Your Style

Communicate Effectively To Influence Actions

Seek Honest Feedback For Improvement

Get A Coach And Join A Cohort

Leverage Networking For Leadership Growth

Build Trust To Enhance Collaboration

Enlist An Accountability Partner

Understand Your Leadership Personality

Stay Curious And Keep Learning

Assess And Develop Leadership Skills

Lead With Empathy And Support

Encourage Initiative And Resolve Conflicts

Gain Leadership Skills Through Experience

Lead Beyond Your Function

Engage In Action Learning

Foster Open Communication With Team

Learn By Making Real Decisions

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