The best thing a leader can do for someone looking to grow is provide them ownership and the responsibilities of a task or stretch opportunity that will help them obtain the skills they are looking for.
The best way to learn anything is by doing it.
Once the task or stretch opportunity is identified and they agree to take it on let them own it. Let them know what the end results should be, answer questions, and then step back and let them get to work.
After they get started meet with them when needed, give them any support they require, and provide the appropriate feedback. Make sure you are not getting too involved though because you need to let them make decisions and drive the results.
This is their time to learn and show you and everyone else what they are capable of.
About willieryder
Willie Ryder spent 10 years in the United States Marine Corps working in Communications and Information Technology in multiple different Leadership roles. He then went to work at Microsoft where he has been for almost 15 years now working in Engineer, Manager, and Leadership roles.
Willie is very passionate about his personal and professional development and also helping others grow. Especially our next generation. He was an active member in Toastmasters for 8 years where he worked on his Communications and Leadership skills and has mentored many others in these areas.
Willie has been a year round youth basketball coach at www.YesICanBasketball.com for 13 years where he has had the wonderful opportunity to work with and coach 100's of kids of all ages. The past 6 years he has regularly volunteered to speak about character traits and mentor kids at the nearby public elementary schools. Over the last 3 years he has been a volunteer mentor with the nonprofit organization www.RightMovesForYouth.org where he tries to make a positive impact on some of the local High School students.
Willie has been married to Jennifer for 24 years. They have 2 daughters, a son, and a Siberian Husky. In his free time he enjoys spending time with family, attending and serving at Elevation Church, Coaching youth basketball, Writing, Public Speaking, Reading, and Running.
Willie Ryder - A Dreamer on a Journey 