As leaders, we are many times called upon to play the role of "teacher." Like it or not (and whether you're good at it or not!), that’s a primary role of leadership. Developing and inspiring talent is a core ingredient of effective leaders. This can be a frustrating role at times, and I’d like to discuss why.

I recently heard a phrase that stuck with me: “When the student is ready, the teacher will appear!”

Many times, when we reach out to our team members to develop a competency or fill a gap of performance, we assume the person is ready and anxious to learn. To change. In fact, many times because they don’t see the value in a new approach or when they're genuinely not more curious about new information you're presenting, the student won't see the value in your “teaching.” So, they will listen politely and maybe even appease you with a few notes and nods of the head. But, in reality, they will continue to do things as they have done it the past. This lack of connection goes back to our previous discussions about creating “embedded ownership” throughout the team. Not spending enough time on the “WHY” (why this change is coming, why this new option is needed and, in fact, more beneficial, etc.) might save time for you, but what it won’t do many times is transfer ownership of the change to your team.

To take this to the next level, let’s discuss you as the "student." As a leader, YOUR level of curiosity and passion for learning will set the pace for your organization. Regardless of what you say, what you do and how you continue to grow personally will set the pace of your company. People would rather see a sermon than to hear one! So, evaluate your own openness to learning. Reach out to mentors, advisors or friends. This will be a signal to your team that the student in you is ready.

So, in your roles of student or teacher in your daily life, make sure the soil is fertile for growth. First, for you and then for those who need your wisdom. No seeds will grow until the conditions are right.

Think about it, and make the change!