What does adaptive leadership require from a leader?

Adaptive leadership emphasizes the ability to address complex challenges by being flexible and responsive to changing circumstances. This approach requires leaders to manage change effectively, recognizing that not all issues can be solved through established procedures or by controlling all aspects of decision-making. Instead, adaptive leaders engage with their teams, encourage collaboration, and foster an environment where innovative solutions can emerge in response to evolving needs.

In this context, adaptability is crucial because leaders must navigate uncertainty and ambiguity, guiding their organizations through transitions while also empowering individuals to contribute to problem-solving. This makes the ability to manage change effectively a vital component of adaptive leadership, as it ensures that leaders can not only respond to immediate challenges but also help cultivate resilience and growth within their teams.