In today's rapidly changing world, the importance of being a learning leader cannot be overstated. On a recent episode "How to be a Learning Leader" on the TCAST podcast, host Jason Rigby sat down with leadership expert Ryan Hawk to discuss the qualities and strategies necessary for becoming a successful learning leader.
Ryan Hawk, the host of "The Learning Leader Show," began the conversation by sharing his definition of a learning leader. According to Hawk, a learning leader is someone who is committed to their own personal growth and development, and who encourages and enables others to do the same. This requires a deep sense of humility and vulnerability, as well as a willingness to take risks and learn from failure.
So, how can leaders become better learners? Hawk shared several strategies, including building a personal board of advisors, seeking feedback regularly, and embracing failure as a necessary part of the learning process. He emphasized the importance of developing a growth mindset and a willingness to step outside of one's comfort zone in order to try new things and take risks.
Hawk and Rigby also discussed the role of leadership in creating a learning culture within an organization. According to Hawk, this requires setting clear goals, providing ongoing feedback, and creating a safe space for experimentation and innovation. He shared examples of companies that have successfully implemented learning cultures, and the benefits they have seen as a result.
Of course, creating a learning culture is not without its challenges. Resistance to change is a common obstacle that leaders may face when trying to introduce new ways of working and thinking. Hawk emphasized the importance of leading by example and being transparent about the reasons behind the changes, in order to build trust and gain buy-in from team members.
In conclusion, being a learning leader is essential in today's fast-paced, ever-changing business landscape. By embracing a growth mindset, cultivating humility and vulnerability, and creating a learning culture within their organization, leaders can not only benefit their own personal growth, but also the growth and success of their team and organization as a whole.
To learn more about Ryan Hawk and his work as a leadership expert and podcast host, check out "The Learning Leader Show" and his website, LearningLeader.com.