Why Focusing Only on Results Limits Team Growth
As leaders, we’re often consumed by meeting immediate objectives. But when we focus solely on output, we miss the bigger picture – developing our people. In a results-driven environment, teams can feel pressured to deliver without taking time to learn. This may boost short-term performance, but it limits innovation and engagement over time.
When leaders shift their mindset to prioritize learning alongside results, it transforms team dynamics. It encourages curiosity, allowing space for questions, and being open to failure as a learning opportunity that can drive deeper growth and improved long-term performance.
Leaders who foster a learning mindset see more engaged, innovative teams ready to adapt to future challenges. Instead of thinking about what needs to get done today, ask yourself: “How can I help my team grow today?”
How can HR Help Leaders Build Learning-Driven Teams?
HR and L&D professionals often grapple with how to encourage leaders to focus on developing their people. By helping leaders see that embedding learning into everyday team culture leads to better results, HR can make a significant impact. The shift begins by empowering leaders to coach their teams to be problem-solvers, critical thinkers, and innovators.
When leaders ask open-ended questions and encourage self-discovery, they create a culture where team members feel valued and engaged. This shift not only enhances personal growth but also boosts team performance. HR’s role isn’t to develop employees directly but to provide the tools, frameworks, and support leaders need to create future leaders.
The Business Case for Embedding Learning into Your Organization
Organizations that prioritize both learning and performance achieve long-term growth. Executives need to champion learning as a strategic imperative – embedded in every facet of the organization. Research shows that companies focused on people and performance are 4.2 times more likely to be top performers in their sectors.1
Creating a learning culture requires leadership from the top. Executives who empower their leaders to lead with learning drive innovation, resilience, and adaptability across their teams. It’s not just about short-term gains; it’s about building an organization that can thrive in a volatile and ever-changing environment.
1 McKinsey: The State of Organizations 2023: Ten Shifts transforming organization (link)
In case you missed it
I’ve shared some additional posts online. Here they are, in case you missed them.
- Sparking conversation (video link)
- Humans are better than machines (video link)
- Let’s talk about love (video link)
- Psychological safety to keep everyone’s voice heard. (video link)
