Many managers are promoted into leadership roles without receiving proper training to manage and lead effectively. Without guidance, they can quickly become a liability to their team rather than an asset, potentially causing challenges with engagement, retention, and accountability. Leadership is not something that comes naturally for most; it requires intentional effort and the right mindset.

Here are seven practical steps to help develop a leadership mindset within your organization:

1. Lead by Example

As a leader, your actions and attitude set the tone for the entire organization. The mindset you adopt plays a crucial role in shaping the culture and behaviors within your team. One of the most effective ways to influence others is by shifting from a self-focused mindset to a team-oriented one. By demonstrating this shift yourself, you can empower your team members to take ownership of their work and their impact on others.

2. Create Leadership Opportunities

Offering your team members opportunities to lead projects, initiatives, or workstreams is a powerful way to develop their accountability. For example, giving employees a chance to manage cross-functional projects or oversee events allows them to experience leadership responsibilities. And assigning these responsibilities helps them gain confidence in decision making, collaboration, and accountability.

Encourage employees to step out of their comfort zones with “stretch assignments,” which push them to acquire new skills and grow as leaders. These assignments often involve new responsibilities, such as managing a project with high visibility or leading a team brainstorming session.

3. Provide Constructive Feedback

To foster trust and growth within your organization, it's essential to provide your team with feedback that is constructive and supportive. Instead of focusing solely on what employees are doing wrong, frame feedback around their impact. This approach not only boosts their performance but also strengthens their relationships within the team.

In short: Offering ongoing, actionable feedback helps employees develop critical self-awareness—an essential leadership trait.

4. Equip Employees With Decision-Making Tools

Tools empower employees to solve problems independently while ensuring that their decisions align with the organization’s goals. By giving your team access to such tools, you foster accountability and create a sense of ownership within the team.

Decision-making frameworks also help streamline processes and enhance collaboration. When employees share a common understanding of how to approach problems, they work together more efficiently and confidently.

5. Highlight the Impact of Leadership

Help your emerging leaders understand the significant impact they have on their teams. Leadership isn’t just about managing tasks—it’s about influencing the entire team’s dynamics and engagement levels. Research shows that managers account for 70 percent of the variance in employee engagement. Leaders who recognize their impact are more likely to create an environment where employees feel heard, valued, and motivated.

6. Invest in Leadership Training

Training and development are critical to cultivating a leadership mindset. Investing in leadership development programs can yield a 25 percent improvement in business outcomes. Whether through mentorship, workshops, or conferences, leadership training equips future leaders with the tools they need to navigate challenges, empower others, and drive performance.

Offering your team members access to both internal and external leadership development resources ensures they are prepared to step into management roles when the time comes.

7. Offer Ongoing Coaching

Leadership development is not a one-time effort. Ongoing coaching ensures that emerging leaders continue to grow, refine their skills, and gain the confidence needed to handle various situations. Research shows that more than 70 percent of leaders who receive coaching experience improved work performance and communication skills. Regular coaching sessions also offer a support system, providing leaders with valuable insights and guidance as they progress in their careers.

The Power of Developing a Leadership Mindset

Developing a leadership mindset within your organization starts with intentional effort and continuous support. By giving your employees the right opportunities, tools, feedback, and coaching, you help them build the skills necessary to lead effectively. Investing in leadership development today is an investment in your organization’s future success.