Better Develop Senior Leaders: 3 Key Steps

Extraordinary Times Require Extraordinary Leaders
Far too often, organizations leave leadership development to chance — hoping that customized training programs alone will produce capable senior leaders. The result? Disappointment in the ability of those leaders to navigate complexity, drive performance, and inspire their teams. To unlock peak performance, organizations must be deliberate and strategic in how they better develop senior leaders. You need to know not just that development matters, but how to do it effectively.

Leadership Development Is Not Delivering
To better develop senior leaders, development programs must go beyond theory and equip leaders with practical skills that directly influence both people and business outcomes. Yet, the data tells a stark story:

• A Brandon Hall study found that 77% of organizations report a general leadership gap, meaning they lack strong leadership at various levels.

• Forbes research revealed that only 11% of companies report having a strong leadership bench.

This gap is no surprise — but it raises a crucial question: how should organizations move forward to truly develop leaders who can thrive in complex, high-stakes environments?

The Most Effective Approach to Develop Senior Leaders

Two approaches have consistently proven effective in building leadership strength:

• Individual executive coaching

• Peer-based action learning leadership programs

We believe the most powerful results come from combining these approaches. Just as a hybrid vehicle leverages different motors at the right moments for optimal performance and efficiency, a blended leadership development approach — switching between personalized coaching and collaborative, peer-driven learning — maximizes both growth and lasting behavior change. 

3 Steps To Better Develop Senior Leaders
When potential leaders move into senior roles — or are asked to elevate their performance — they often need a new perspective and a new set of skills. Transitioning from a hands-on approach to one that inspires others to execute strategy requires adaptability. Senior leaders also operate in a more visible, complex environment where they become the focal point: role model, motivator, and example for others.

1. Assess Needs
   The first step is to conduct a training needs assessment. Targeting gaps with precision allows you to design practical, individualized development plans that prepare them to lead confidently and effectively. For high-stakes roles, consider leadership simulation assessments to gain an accurate understanding of strengths and areas for growth.
   
   Once needs are clear, you can implement a hybrid development approach that combines personalized coaching with peer-based learning.
   
   
2. Provide Personalized Executive Coaching
   Executive coaching is grounded in the belief that every leader can enhance both their own performance and the performance of others. Working one-on-one, coaches help leaders identify areas for improvement—whether in performance, perspective, or promotion readiness. They provide real-time feedback, guidance, and support, keeping leaders accountable and reinforcing positive behaviors while addressing developmental gaps.
   
   Regular check-ins ensure that leaders steadily progress toward their specific leadership goals.
   
   
3. Use Peer-Based Action Learning Leadership Programs
   There is no substitute for learning alongside peers in a structured, well-designed environment. Action learning leadership development programs give leaders the opportunity to gain insight into what it takes to lead effectively, strengthen relationships with peers and executives, and drive strategic initiatives forward.
   
   These programs are most effective when delivered over six to twelve months, allowing participants to practice new skills, receive feedback, measure results, debrief, and refine their approach — creating a continuous cycle of improvement and growth.

The Bottom Line
Developing senior leaders is not a task for shortcuts or quick fixes. These roles carry immense responsibility and complexity. By investing thoughtfully in their growth and planning deliberately, you ensure leaders are equipped to deliver measurable results, drive strategy, and inspire their teams to achieve at the highest level.

To learn more about how to better develop senior leaders, download The Top Skills for High Performing Leaders