Assessing Leadership Practices: Strengths, Gaps, and Growth
Great leaders are not static—they continuously evolve by reflecting on their effectiveness, seeking feedback, and making intentional improvements. Leadership assessment is not about criticism but about recognizing what is working, identifying blind spots, and refining skills to maximize impact.
Effective leadership assessment involves:
- Self-Reflection – Regularly evaluating personal leadership decisions, behaviors, and outcomes.
- Feedback Seeking – Gathering honest insights from peers, mentors, and team members.
- Behavioral Alignment – Ensuring leadership actions align with core values and organizational goals.
- Adaptability – Recognizing when adjustments are needed and making proactive changes.
Leaders who assess themselves with openness and a growth mindset create trust, foster stronger teams, and continuously improve their ability to inspire and guide others.
Practical Exercise: The “Mirror & Window” Method
Use this two-step process to assess and improve leadership effectiveness:
The Mirror (Self-Reflection) – At the end of the week, ask yourself:
- What leadership actions did I take that aligned with my values and goals?
- Where did I struggle, and what could I have done differently?
The Window (External Feedback) – Once a month, ask a trusted colleague or team member:
- What is one strength I should continue to build on?
- What is one area where I can improve as a leader?
Action Step: Implement the Mirror & Window Method weekly for self-assessment and monthly for external feedback to track your leadership growth over time.