Scott McInnesFounder and Director, Inspiring Change · 20+ Years Helping Leaders Build Stronger Cultures, More Human Communication and Embed Lasting Change | Founder | Keynote Speaker | Podcast Host

Skills for Leaders Today and Tomorrow | What you need to know

3 Feb 2026 · 1 min

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In this interview segment, the speakers discuss the emerging skill set that high‑potential and future leaders should develop beyond the traditional focus. They highlight four core practices: maintaining an open mind to spot and pursue opportunities; possessing clear self‑awareness of one’s strengths and weaknesses; deliberately surrounding oneself with people who are stronger or more skilled to raise personal performance; and actively building connections—linking people, places, and opportunities—while seeking mentors and heeding their advice. These behaviors are presented as essential levers for personal growth and organizational impact in tomorrow’s leadership landscape.

Chapters

What are some of the other skills that the leaders of tomorrow, those up-and-coming, perhaps high-potential leaders, or even some of the younger people that you have on programs, what are some of the other skills that they need for tomorrow that perhaps we aren't quite as focused on today in terms of teaching them?
Keeping your mind open to opportunities. Really always look for the opportunities. Knowing your strengths and your weaknesses is absolutely key. Surrounding yourself with people that are better than you. Don't be challenged. Absolutely take on the individuals that you think would be better, because at the end of the day, it'll make you look better, um, they will complement your skills. And keep connecting, looking for those connections. We've said it 100 times on this, the power of connection is absolutely key. Connecting people, connecting place, connecting opportunities, looking for those synergies. They're the pieces that I would always do. And listen, for God's sake, listen to people's advice. Surround yourself with mentors.