Why Most Leadership Training Fails
Leadership training is big business. UK companies spend billions every year developing their managers. Yet, if you ask staff on the ground, the results often feel underwhelming.
Why? Because traditional leadership training often fails to change behaviour in a meaningful, lasting way.
In sectors like engineering, manufacturing, and infrastructure, where deadlines are tight and safety-critical, failure isn’t just frustrating — it’s costly.
3 Reasons Leadership Training Often Fails
1. Too Generic
Most training is designed for “every leader in every sector.” It rarely addresses the unique pressures of complex, regulated industries — where a late decision or miscommunication can cause project delays worth millions.
2. Too Long-Term, Too Abstract
Programmes can take months or years to deliver results. In high-pressure environments, leaders need practical tools and confidence they can apply immediately.
3. No Link to ROI
Boards and procurement leaders want proof of value. When leadership training doesn’t link to tangible outcomes — like retention, productivity, or reduced project delays — it’s seen as a cost, not an investment.
The Fix: Quick Wins That Prove Value
At The Harrison Network, we’ve seen what works: focus on quick, measurable wins.
Our People-Powered Performance (PPP) consultancy is built differently:
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Audit – identify the single biggest blocker holding teams back.
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Coaching – targeted support to fix it fast.
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Quick Win – results in weeks, not years.
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Momentum – one win builds confidence and creates lasting change.
This approach proves ROI quickly, giving leaders the breathing room and credibility to drive bigger transformations.
What This Means for Engineering & Infrastructure
When training is tailored to the realities of ops, HR, and supply chain leaders, it helps:
- Reduce staff turnover and recruitment costs
- Boost productivity by clearing people blockers
- Improve engagement and morale under pressure
- Strengthen leadership confidence in critical moments
- Deliver projects faster and more safely
Final Thought
Leadership training doesn’t have to fail.
With the right focus, it can deliver fast, measurable results that matter to your people, your projects, and your bottom line.
👉 Book a People-Powered Audit today and see the difference one quick win can make.
🔗 theharrisonnetwork.co.uk/contact
👉 Or start small: try our People Performance Cost Calculator.
🔗 theharrisonnetwork.co.uk/cost-calculator
