Our research with UK training providers of EY leadership development has shown that while virtual courses can be a useful tool for accessing leadership development, it’s important to know what to look for in online learning. In February 2023, we published an article with Under 5 Magazine outlining three main things to look out for in online leadership development:

1. It should be immediately relevant to your day-to-day work in EY

The leadership development you choose should fit with the busy daily experience of leading in an EY setting. Programmes need to work with your schedule, making it possible to balance your responsibilities as you improve your leadership skills. This could take the form of short programme sessions, morning and evening video calls, or self-paced content.

• It should have chances for authentic reflection

Leadership development programmes should respond to EY leaders’ distinctive experiences, holding space for you to reflect on the nuances of your setting. This can take a variety of forms, such as providing question prompts that provoke your thinking, encouraging conversations with peers, and suggesting action steps to try in your setting. These methods encourage you to reflect on how general leadership theories link to your daily work.

• It should have chances for community and connection

Online leadership development should encourage collaborative learning, providing insight into the perspectives and experiences of others and forming supportive networks that promote best leadership practice. There are many ways to connect over and share our leadership experiences, including joining a cohort, engaging in discussion forums and online meetings, and accessing one-to-one coaching and mentoring.

To find out more, visit Under 5 Magazine’s February issue!