The truest fruit of an apple tree is not an apple, it is another apple tree. Inside every apple, there is an orchard waiting to be planted. In the same way, the truest fruit of a leader is not a follower, or a team. it is another leader.
We are all called to invest in and develop others in the way that a lot of us wish someone had invested in us. The trouble is that for most of us, we have no idea how to do it and where to start.
Here is a tool that we have used for years and have found incredibly, helpful.
Before you start: you have a clear conversation with someone in your team who you have identified as having character and spiritual velocity. Tell them that you see leadership in them and ask them to become an apprentice leader. You explain that there is a pathway and give them an idea about how long the journey may take.
Step 1: I do, you watch, we talk.
The first step is for them to become more aware of what goes into leadership. Encourage questions and criticisms. Discuss weekly how and why you lead as you do.
Step 2: I do, you help, we talk.
Next, ask them to support you in your leadership. Perhaps allocate a part of the session or programme to them to manage. Keep discussing each week how things are going and how they can develop.
Step 3: You do, I help, we talk.
This is the turning point, where they take on the primary leadership and you step back. You are still there to support them but no longer hold the conversation or try to resolve all the problems.
Step 4: You do, I watch, we talk.
At this point, your role is more like a cheerleader and a safety net. Lean into their leadership and model for others how a supportive team or group operates. Keep talking at the end of each session and checking in with how they are doing.
Step 5: You do, someone else watches, you talk.
Once you have finished, encourage them to find someone else to invest in. That way the group will keep growing, multiplying and developing new leaders.
This process is remarkably simple but also very powerful in its ability to help leaders to develop.
