Leadership in Action: Experience Counts: Learning Lessons from Key Events

LEARNING OPPORTUNITY

When groups and organizations undertake shared work over time, certain key events often stand out— events that leave a lasting impression on the group. The unique depth, breadth, and intensity of these events provide a dramatic test of the leadership strategies of the group. New strategies may be developed, old strategies may be reverted to, or current and established strategies may be employed.

Unfortunately, groups and organizations often neglect the powerful opportunity for learning that accompanies a key event. At best, an afteraction review may be conducted to capture technical issues. The relational and social issues pivotal to the effective handling of a complex challenge are often not dealt with.

The critical reflections ...