Workplace leaders are in a challenging position: not only is the work landscape evolving rapidly, but managers and executives are also under significant pressure.
According to Hazel Stewart, MD of Innovate Learn (a Melbourne-based distributor of solutions from Wilson Learning Worldwide), workplaces need to adapt their leadership skills development programs, not only to ensure workplace leaders have the right skills to guide their teams, but also to ensure they are equipped to manage the pressures of modern work.
Burnout at the top
Senior executives are worried about their well-being and the negative impact that job stress is having on their mental health.
A recent Gartner survey highlighted that 56 percent of senior executives are likely to leave their current role within the next two years, in great part because of increasing workloads and stress.
Meanwhile, DDI’s 2025 Global Leadership Forecast found that 4 in 10 leaders are considering leaving their roles to improve their well-being. Alarmingly, this report also found that ‘intention to leave’ increased from 13 percent in 2020 to 21 percent in 2024.
The pipeline for managers is also shrinking, with many Gen Z employees opting not to take on management roles because these are perceived as more stressful.
“Workplaces certainly have to address the issue of workload and take steps to protect the mental well-being of workers,” says Hazel. “But they also have to develop programs to build the specific skills that make individuals more effective as leaders, and help them feel more empowered to navigate the complexities of the modern workspace”.
5 key leadership skills to build in 2025
- Adaptability: An effective leader is resilient, both personally and in their workplace role. They’re able to adapt to change by learning new skills or making strategic adjustments. Hazel reiterates the value of versatile leadership in modern workplaces. “A versatile leader possesses a range of skills, qualities, and approaches that they can adapt easily to motivate their teams, inspire collaboration, and navigate challenges with ease,” she says. Research by Wilson Learning has shown that versatile leadership can drive up productivity and engagement by as much as 56 percent.
- Emotional intelligence Encompasses Empathy, effective communication skills, conflict resolution capabilities, and the ability to inspire others, all of which are key. “It’s important to understand the social style of your organisation’s leaders and support them in developing more versatility, so that they’re able to adapt their communication style and achieve more effective engagements with a wide range of people – be it customers, colleagues or members of the board,” adds Hazel.
- Experimental thinking: Creative problem-solving, curiosity, and innovative thinking drive success. A good leader can foster these qualities in their teams.
- Critical thinking: In today’s increasingly complex world, being able to analyze problems, identify trends and opportunities, and make informed decisions is crucial.
- Tech-savvy: The new Superagency in the Workplace report from McKinsey has highlighted the barriers to scaling AI and found that it’s not employees who are the greatest hurdle – it’s workplace leaders. In addition, 47 percent of employees believe that training is the most important factor for AI adoption, but many report they’re not getting adequate support in this regard. Workplace leaders should be proficient in new technology, including AI, cybersecurity, and even data analytics.
