The Leadership Development Conundrum: How to Unlock Growth, Influence & Impact
In my recent conversation with Dr. Lisa Colledge, an expert in cognitive diversity and inclusive leadership, we explored these challenges and discussed a practical yet subtle approach—what we call “The Sneaky Way”—to influencing leadership culture from within an organization.
Effective leadership development is essential for building strong, resilient teams.
Yet, many executives and senior leaders resist investing in their own growth, dismissing executive coaching and team development as unnecessary. Why is that? And how can professionals who recognize the importance of leadership evolution create change—especially when the top leadership team isn’t on board?
Why Do Some Leaders Resist Growth?
Despite overwhelming evidence that investing in leadership development leads to stronger teams, increased retention, and higher productivity, some leaders remain reluctant. Here are a few key reasons why:
✔️ The Focus on Short-Term Profits – Some organizations prioritize immediate financial gains over long-term investment in leadership skills, missing the broader benefits of a well-supported team.
✔️ Leadership Ego – Many leaders feel that seeking executive coaching is an admission of weakness, rather than an opportunity for growth. They may believe they already have all the answers.
✔️ Old-School Mindsets – Traditional leadership models often emphasize hierarchy and authority rather than collaboration and adaptability. This can create resistance to new approaches.
✔️ The Fear of Change – Shifting leadership culture requires self-awareness, adaptability, and a willingness to be vulnerable—qualities that some executives may struggle with.
The "Sneaky Way" Approach
So, what can professionals do when their senior leadership resists leadership development? The answer lies in The Sneaky Way—a subtle but highly effective method of enacting change without formal top-down buy-in.
🔹 Start Small & Set Benchmarks – Make incremental changes within your own team, track the results, and showcase success. Leaders care about metrics—when they see measurable improvements, they are more likely to take notice.
🔹 Leverage Cognitive Diversity – Encourage different problem-solving styles and work approaches within teams. By fostering an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives thrive, teams naturally become more innovative and productive.
🔹 Create a Culture of Trust – Leaders who build psychological safety within their teams see higher engagement and performance. Trust is the foundation for innovation and collaboration.
🔹 Lead Without Authority – You don’t need a title to lead. By modeling strong leadership behaviors—such as collaboration, active listening, and adaptability—others will begin to follow.
🔹 Use Data to Influence Leadership Buy-In – Executives often resist change due to uncertainty. Providing concrete evidence of how small changes lead to tangible business improvements can shift perspectives over time.
Leadership development doesn’t have to start at the top—it can begin anywhere in an organization. By making small, strategic shifts, professionals can create ripple effects that eventually influence even the most resistant leadership teams.
Take the Next Step in Your Leadership Journey
Dr. Lisa Colledge offers a free Neuro-Inspired 12 Step program. This framework transforms the neuroscience of teamwork into practical, actionable strategies for leaders and teams to work more effectively together.
For those looking to dive deeper into executive coaching, leadership development, building high-performing teams, or navigating operational challenges, let’s talk.
📩 Set up a consult call today: http://practica.consulting/contact
Jaime Gennaro is a seasoned business consultant and coach with 25 years of experience helping companies achieve sustainable growth and leadership success. She has held leadership roles in marketing and operational strategy across various industries, including tech startups and creative agencies. Jaime specializes in business coaching for entrepreneurs and guiding leaders in balancing personal and professional growth. She focuses on reducing burnout, achieving business clarity, and developing entrepreneurial leadership strategies for long-term success.
