I came across David Marquet’s Ladder of Leadership model recently, and I love it!
It’s a great way to illustrate the development of our personal leadership on our journey to being capable of effectively leading and developing leadership in others.
Step 1 on the ladder is where we’re still waiting for permission from someone else. This could be down to lack of know-how, lack of confidence, or something else.
Step 2 on the ladder is where we start to notice what others are doing – the power of learning through observation. This really does highlight the importance of modeling good leadership behaviours when you’re being observed by others still learning. Because make no mistake, you are being observed.
Step 3 is where we’re starting to think about what we’re seeing and forming our own thoughts and ideas about what we could do ourselves. Never under-estimate your influence if in a senior leadership position as it will be shaping the thinking of others.
Step 4 is where things start to heat up, because now thoughts are turning towards action, though still seeking permission. Those first tentative, vulnerable steps into the unknown. As an experienced leader, it’s important how you support and encourage, mentor and coach those who are willing to venture into the unknown.
Step 5 shows the mindset shift to clearer intentions, shaped by learning, observations, considered thought, and growing confidence. Ongoing support, encouragement and coaching is important, while also starting to take a step back as you give them more space to turn intention into action.
Step 6 is all about trying out and action, where permission hasn’t been sought. There’s more confidence at this level, greater competence, and trust is present. Your leaders trust you to take autonomous action, and you trust yourself to do the job and do it with care.
Step 7 is full independence, a high level of competence, as well as confidence, and motivation to take action consistently within the autonomous boundaries of your role, which are clear, known and respected. It includes the acknowledgement that learning is ongoing. This is personal leadership in action, which may or may not involve formal leadership of others.
Either way, always stay mindful that someone will be on the lower rungs of their ladder, looking up, watching and learning from you, and forming and shaping their own leadership skills. Influenced by you and your actions and behaviours.
What are you teaching them?
