Tapping Into Reservists’ Leadership Development Training

A survey carried out by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development in 2005 revealed that 91% of organisations believe there is a direct link between leadership skill development and business performance, with 65% believing there is a shortage of effective leaders in the UK.Many forward-thinking organisations already recognise that investing in leadership development training is the key to delivering sustainable improvements in competitiveness and business performance, with both tangible and intangible benefits.Leadership development integral part of training for ReservistsAs well as being one of the areas which employers value most, along with self-confidence, initiative and adaptability, leadership is notoriously difficult to provide training for. Yet the intensive training undertaken by all Reservists results in the development of transferable skills and qualities in precisely these areas, making Reservists a huge asset to their civilian employer.In October 2005, a team of leading business academics identified poor leadership as one of the top five key weaknesses in business management. In contrast, the same study’s research amongst Reservists and its review of Reserve training identified the following competencies as the most widely developed by Reserve service: decision-making, motivating, communicating, managing risk, inspiring, involving others, team building, planning and managing conflict. All of these are essential elements in the development of good leadership skills.96% of employers say Reservists develop good leadership skillsSimilarly, employers of members of the Reserve Forces have consistently identified leadership qualities, teamwork skills and self-confidence as three areas where Reserve service adds value to their business or organisation; with 96% of the employers of Reservists saying that employees’ leadership is developed through service in the Reserve Forces.Reservists are skilled, clear-thinking individuals, who are prepared to learn, which is why an increasing number of employers recognise the unique benefits of employing Reservists.In acknowledgement of the great personal sacrifice and commitment made by Reservists, and the benefits their training brings to their civilian employment, SaBRE is campaigning for all UK businesses to pledge their support by signing the Statement of Employer Support. Over 100 companies have already given their public backing for their current or future employment of members of the Reserve Forces.