Nature of Desirable On-the-Job Experiences

While recognizing the potential benefits that may accrue through on-the-job experiences, it is important to recognize also that not all on-the-job experiences are equal in their potential effectiveness for leadership development. Two characteristics of effective experiences have been consistently revealed by this and other research. On-the-job learning is most likely to occur for both men and women when

1. Individuals are placed in a variety of challenging situations with problems to solve and choices to make under conditions of risk. These situations motivate individuals to learn, provide opportunities to gain new ideas and knowledge and to practice skills and apply knowledge, and encourage new insights through reflection on prior actions.
2. Individuals gain their experiences in a supportive environment with supervisors who provide positive role models and constructive support and mentors who provide counsel.

Some examples of challenging situations include the provision of new or increased responsibilities; special start-up assignments such as initiating a new program or project; and handling personnel problems such as hiring and firing.

Given that men were more likely than women to be the initiators of their developmental experiences, vocational education administrator-leaders may need to be more aggressive in identifying and providing appropriate on-the-job developmental opportunities for women preparing for leadership roles.