Sustainable business schools | How can organisations develop effective leaders?

Carefree inspired indian male employee standing in modern office space and holding laptop, cheerful young businessman in green shirt
Carefree inspired indian male employee standing in modern office space and holding laptop, cheerful young businessman in green shirt

At the Business Graduates Association, we’re passionate about supporting  business schools in developing future leaders. The BGA accreditation is focused on positively impacting students, communities and the economy. Our fastest-growing network in business education is committed to encouraging growth, both personally and professionally. 

Here, we share our top tips on how organisations can work to develop effective leaders, from establishing procedures for decision-making to improving communication skills. 

If you would like to learn more about how a business school membership can enable you to gain a competitive edge, please visit BGA membership for more information.

What makes a good leader? 

During a student’s time at a business school, they’re likely to learn a lot about the importance of becoming a successful leader – but what does that really mean? 

Many professionals argue that the most important leadership qualities can be both inherited and learned. Effective leaders don’t have to hold positions of power, just as there are many different types of people, there are also numerous styles of leadership. 

At the Business Graduates Association, we believe a good leader should possess a number of qualities, including:

  • Open-mindedness

  • Flexibility 

  • Dependability

  • Self-awareness

  • Respect

  • Adaptability

  • Innovation 

Recognising the responsibility held by business schools in developing future leaders is crucial to ensuring individuals can reach their full potential both during and after their studies.

How to develop effective leaders

A professional can’t expect to advance to the top of their field without a willingness to perfect their skill set. Some people are natural-born leaders, but anyone can develop the skills needed to undertake a successful leadership role. 

The best leaders develop leaders. Below, we’ve put together a list of some of the key strategies business schools can adopt in order to ensure they’re doing all they can to develop efficient future leaders. This includes offering consistent mentoring and empowering individuals to reach their full potential.  

Encourage individuals to never stop learning 

The most effective way to become a good leader is by consistently exposing yourself to new things. 

Learning is a crucial tool, no matter what stage of life you’re in. To ensure that you’re always at the top of your game and are prepared for future challenges, never stop being inquisitive.  

Empower students and graduates

It’s impossible to be the best at everything. At the Business Graduates Association, we’re passionate about empowering students and graduates, helping them to recognise their strengths and improve on their weaknesses. 

Organisations can work to develop future leaders by empowering individuals, trusting their abilities and vocalising their successes. 

Offer consistent mentoring

Aspiring leaders should always feel as though there is someone they can turn to for guidance and support. 

Organisations should appoint mentors and work to develop a structured programme that focuses on building trusting, strong relationships. Provide constructive feedback, offering both praise and advice to help individuals reach their full potential. 

BGA Student and Graduate Membership offers students and graduates of a BGA member school, access to unmatched career development services. From CV-building services to skill assessments, individuals can assess their career path, and learn about what employers want. If you want to check if your school is a member with us, visit here, and if you would like to learn more about the benefits of Student and Graduate Membership, click here. 

Challenge them 

Future leaders are expert problem solvers. One of the most effective teaching methods an institution can adopt is enabling students to reveal their capabilities by overcoming challenges. 

As well as developing their critical thinking skills, individuals can also enhance their knowledge when faced with unfamiliar situations. 

The most effective leaders are confident in their abilities. In order to develop confidence in your abilities, you must first overcome challenges. Problem-solving is an excellent way to boost self-esteem, enabling individuals to realise their full potential. 

Encourage business exposure

In order to enable students and graduates to recognise their potential as future leaders, it’s crucial that they are exposed to an array of business leaders. This will enable them to gain a greater understanding of the industry, while also realising the importance of networking with like-minded individuals and forming valuable connections. 

The best leaders develop leaders

As an educational institution, employer or mentor, leadership development is a crucial aspect of management. As a figurehead, it’s your duty to set a steadfast example for future leaders. At the Business Graduates Association, we strive to enhance a business school’s readiness to meet future employer demands. 

If you would like to find out more about how business school membership could help to increase student recruitment numbers and ensure you’re developing the next generation of business leaders, please visit here for more information

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