Leadership in Action: In Focus - Leader Development - Personal Lives, Powerful Lessons

In Focus/Leader Development

Personal Lives, Powerful Lessons

Marian N. Ruderman and Patricia J. Ohlott

Most leaders say they get their most influential and effective developmental training on the job. Too often, however, these same leaders discount what can be learned from experiences outside of work.

Although nonwork roles and responsibilities can limit and interfere with performance at work, there is another side to the story that is rich in possibilities and potential rewards. Interests, roles, and responsibilities outside of work can also serve as creative and supportive sources for learning how to be a more effective manager.

It's important for leaders to see that ordinary nonwork activities such as organizing a fund-raising event, coaching ...