Leadership today is not what it once was. The traditional, hierarchical model is giving way to a new, more adaptive approach, as leaders worldwide are being called to navigate a rapidly changing environment. In the Netherlands, the National Leadership Survey 2024 (Nationaal Leiderschapsonderzoek) — conducted by Ixly and NCD — sheds light on these shifting leadership trends. With insights drawn from over 500 professionals, the findings underscore the global leadership transition we’re seeing: leadership that is more human, systemic, and embodied.
In past decades, leadership was often defined by control, authority, and decision-making power. However, today's leaders are being recognized not for their command, but for their ability to inspire and connect. The report found that the most admired leaders are those who lead with authenticity, emotional intelligence, and a clear sense of purpose.
This shift closely mirrors the Co-Active Leadership philosophy, which positions leadership as a relationship rather than a position of power. At its core, Co-Active Leadership emphasizes that true leadership is about being present and engaged, and it's about empowering others to act. Whether you’re leading yourself, your team, or your organization, the power of connection remains central to effective leadership.
Leaders today are required to guide their teams through a range of complex, interconnected challenges — from economic pressures to environmental sustainability. The Nationaal Leiderschapsonderzoek reflects a growing expectation for leaders to adopt a systemic view of problems and solutions, emphasizing long-term strategies over short-term fixes.
This is where frameworks like ORSC (Organization & Relationship Systems Coaching) come into play. ORSC offers tools to help leaders become more attuned to the underlying emotional dynamics within teams and organizations, facilitating collaboration, alignment, and shared purpose. Systemic leaders don’t just lead by directive; they guide by helping others understand the larger picture, where every action and decision is part of an interconnected whole.
Leadership is not only about what you think or say — it’s also about how you show up in the moment. In a world filled with digital communication and virtual interactions, the need for Leadership Embodiment is more critical than ever. This approach teaches leaders how to remain present, calm, and grounded, especially in moments of high stress.
One of the key benefits of virtual training is the ability to integrate these embodied leadership practices into everyday life, even in a remote or hybrid environment. Many of our participants in virtual leadership programs have reported transformative shifts in their ability to stay centered and resilient during challenging situations. The ability to embody leadership — through body awareness, emotional regulation, and presence — not only strengthens a leader’s own resilience but also fosters trust and engagement within teams.
The study also highlights a strong trend towards purpose-driven leadership. More than ever, leaders are being asked to take responsibility for the long-term impact of their decisions, considering not just profitability but also social and environmental factors. This shift is driving a desire for collaboration and collective leadership, where decisions are made inclusively, with input from all stakeholders.
Co-Active Leadership embraces this collaborative spirit by encouraging leaders to work with, rather than above, their teams. Leaders today must be able to inspire their teams to take ownership of their work and contribute to a shared vision. This approach aligns well with modern coaching, where collaboration is seen as a key driver of organizational success. By working together, leaders and teams can create more sustainable and meaningful outcomes.
As we look to the future, the need for leaders who can navigate complexity, lead with integrity, and maintain a deep connection to their teams will only grow. The trends outlined in the Nationaal Leiderschapsonderzoek reinforce the importance of developing leaders who are not only skilled but also attuned to the emotional and systemic needs of their organizations.
At Competence, we believe that leadership development is an ongoing journey. Whether through Co-Active Coaching, ORSC, or Leadership Embodiment, the key is continuous learning and adaptation. Leaders must remain open to feedback, committed to their personal growth, and dedicated to fostering collaboration and innovation.
We invite you to explore our training programs, where you can build the skills and mindset needed to lead in today’s complex world. Join us for one of our upcoming sessions and discover how to bring these leadership concepts to life in your own practice.
The National Leadership Survey (Nationaal Leiderschapsonderzoek) 2024 offers a clear signal: Dutch leadership is evolving toward greater depth, humanity, and purpose. These findings provide valuable direction for organizations investing in leadership development — especially approaches that integrate personal transformation with systemic impact.
En
Nederlands
Deutsch 
