Why (and How to) Create a Leadership Development Plan?

Effective leadership doesn’t happen by chance—it requires intentional development and continuous learning. A well-structured leadership development plan helps individuals and organizations build the right skills, grow future leaders, and drive long-term success.

Below are the key steps to creating a leadership development plan, along with best practices for implementation.

Why is a leadership development plan important?

A leadership development plan helps individuals and organizations proactively build leadership capabilities, ensuring leaders are prepared to drive business success, inspire teams, and navigate challenges effectively.

What are the key steps in creating a leadership development plan?

• Define Leadership Goals – Identify the leadership skills and qualities needed for success.
• Assess Current Leadership Strengths & Gaps – Use self-assessments, feedback, and evaluations.
• Set SMART Development Goals – Goals should be Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
• Choose Learning & Development Strategies – Combine training, coaching, mentorship, and real-world application.
• Apply Learning in Real-World Situations – Lead projects, coach teams, and drive initiatives.
• Measure Progress & Adjust the Plan – Regularly review growth and refine development strategies.

What should be included in a leadership development plan?

A strong plan includes:

• Leadership competencies to develop (e.g., emotional intelligence, strategic thinking).
• Learning methods (e.g., training programs, coaching, books, online courses).
• Real-world application (e.g., stretch assignments, leadership projects).
• Feedback mechanisms (e.g., 360-degree reviews, mentoring check-ins).
• Clear success metrics to track progress.

How long should a leadership development plan last?

Leadership development is an ongoing journey, but structured plans typically cover:

• 90 Days: Foundational skills & self-awareness.
• 6 Months: Applied leadership in real-world settings.
• 1 Year+: Advanced leadership growth and organizational impact.

How do I measure the success of a leadership development plan?

Track progress using:

• Feedback from mentors, peers, and team members.
• Performance metrics (e.g., engagement scores, project success rates).
• Self-reflection & leadership assessments.

Where can I find a detailed guide on creating a leadership development plan?

Read our full Leadership Development Planning Guide for a step-by-step roadmap and practical tools.