Leadership is a Skill Set for All, Not a Gift for Some

Helping folks throughout an organization grow into the type of leader they once looked up to is one of the more satisfying parts of our job. However, we have seen some companies trip up during this process, especially when formalizing it in a way that is effective.

Leadership isn't about having a laundry list of traits or just echoing company values.

It's about real skills that anyone can learn, sharpen and be rewarded for—think of it like a muscle, not a birthright.

Sure, values matter, but they don't make you a leader on their own – it’s important not to conflate different parts of your culture. When companies get it, they make leadership something everyone can aim for through a set of clear, objective competencies. It's about giving everyone the tools to lead, not just a select few.