In today’s fast-paced workplace, leadership isn’t just about setting direction; it’s about guiding others, empowering teams, and teaching along the way. But what happens when a leader isn’t a natural teacher? Do you need a degree in education to effectively mentor your team? The short answer is no.
Teaching Is a Leadership Skill But Not a Fixed One
One of the core principles of being a leader worth following is the willingness to teach. But it’s important to understand that leadership traits like empathy, emotional predictability, and teaching ability are not destinations; they’re journeys. You don’t have to be a professional educator to teach effectively. Like many leadership qualities, teaching is a skill that can be developed over time. It’s not about perfection; it’s about progression.
Rethinking What “Teaching” Looks Like
If the word “teaching” makes you picture standing at a podium with a PowerPoint, it’s time to expand your view. Teaching as a leader can take many forms:
- Telling stories that convey values or lessons
- Walking someone through a process one-on-one
- Sharing insights during a team debrief
- Demonstrating how to navigate a challenge or task
These are all valid, powerful ways to teach, and most leaders are already doing some of them without even realizing it.
Lean Into Strengths and Improve the Gaps
As a leader, you may naturally excel in some areas of teaching and struggle in others. That’s okay. The goal isn’t to master every form of communication overnight. Instead, model a mindset of continuous improvement. When your team sees you actively working to become better – not just at leading, but at teaching – they’ll be more willing to grow as well. Again, focus on the principle that leadership is about progress, not perfection.
Practical Tips for Leaders to Grow as Teachers
You don’t need a second degree to improve your teaching skills. Here are simple, effective ways to get started:
- Observe and learn from great communicators, whether they’re managers, mentors, or TED Talk speakers.
- Ask for feedback on how well your instructions or guidance are understood.
- Reflect on moments when someone taught you something effectively. What made it work?
- Practice empathy. Understanding how others learn is the first step in helping them grow.
The Journey Matters More Than the Title
Ultimately, being a great leader doesn’t mean having all the answers or flawless delivery. It means modeling the behaviors you want to see in others: curiosity, patience, and the commitment to growth. If teaching doesn’t come naturally, that’s not a weakness; it’s an opportunity. Keep stepping forward, one intentional step at a time.