30 Nov Why Online Leadership Development Programs Fail to Deliver
In today’s fast-paced digital age, online learning has become increasingly popular, offering a convenient way for professionals to enhance their skills and knowledge. However, when it comes to leadership development, the effectiveness of online programs is a topic of debate. This blog explores why online leadership development programs often fall short of expectations and fail to deliver the desired results.
The Duality of Leadership Development
Research has shown that online learning can be effective for individual knowledge-based leader development. However, leadership development is a multifaceted process that goes beyond individual growth. It involves learning from peers, fostering human connection, building psychological safety, and practicing leadership skills. Online programs struggle to address these critical aspects, leading to mixed results for participants.
The Importance of Human Connection
One of the primary reasons online leadership development programs falter is the absence of human connection. Leadership development is a collective experience that thrives on informal conversations, also known as “side chats.” These conversations build trust, open communication, and lasting professional relationships, which are essential for leadership growth.
Unfortunately, online programs often lack these spontaneous interactions, leaving participants feeling isolated and disconnected. Research has emphasised the significance of relationships with colleagues and interpersonal interactions for effective learning, which online programs struggle to replicate.
The Challenge of Psychological Safety
Psychological safety, where individuals feel secure expressing their true selves without fear of repercussions, is vital for leadership development. It encourages individuals to reflect on their strengths and weaknesses and make personal transformative changes.
Online programs often fall short in creating psychological safety, as participants may feel guarded due to the lack of human connection and concerns about being recorded. Social exchange theory and social learning theory stress the importance of supportive practices and relationships in developing psychological safety, aspects that are challenging to establish in the online environment.
Communication Difficulties
Online communication can be stilted and unnatural, disrupting the flow of dialogue. Participants may struggle with timing when to contribute to a conversation, resulting in a stop-start style of communication. This artificiality hinders the organic exchange of ideas and inhibits effective learning and collaboration.
Zoom Fatigue and Distractions
Participating in online programs can be physically and mentally draining, leading to what has been termed “Zoom fatigue.” The constant need for focus and the effort required to appear engaged can exhaust participants. Distractions have also intensified since the pandemic, making it difficult for individuals to allocate dedicated time for online learning.
Implications and Recommendations
Online leadership development programs can be effective for knowledge-based content but fall short in addressing the critical aspects of leadership development. To ensure success in such programs, educators and organisations should:
- Prioritise human connection: Facilitate informal conversations and networking opportunities to build trust and lasting relationships among participants.
- Foster psychological safety: Create an environment where participants feel safe to share their thoughts and engage in meaningful dialogue.
- Address communication challenges: Explore ways to improve the flow of online conversations and encourage more natural interactions.
- Recognise Zoom fatigue: Allow participants to turn off their cameras when needed and consider a blended approach to reduce mental exhaustion.
- Manage distractions: Encourage participants to allocate dedicated time for online learning and limit external interruptions.
In conclusion, while online leadership development programs offer convenience, they often fall short in delivering the holistic experience required for effective leadership growth. By addressing the challenges of human connection, psychological safety, communication, and distractions, educators and organisations can enhance the effectiveness of online leadership development and better prepare future leaders.
Written by Sharon Koster
Director,
PiqueGlobal