Growing Strong Teams: Leadership Development Opportunities This Spring

As spring brings growth and renewal, it’s also a perfect season to invest in growing what matters most in your business—your team. Strong, effective teams don’t happen by accident. They’re built through purposeful leadership, ongoing development, and a workplace culture that values growth.

Whether you’re leading a startup or managing a growing small business, focusing on leadership development and team-building this spring can set the tone for long-term success. Here are some key strategies and local opportunities—like the Adams Leadership program—that can help you grow a stronger, more connected team this season.

Why Leadership Development Matters

Every successful business needs confident, capable leaders—not just at the top, but at every level. Investing in leadership development:

  • Boosts employee morale and engagement

  • Builds a pipeline of future leaders within your organization

  • Encourages initiative and innovation

  • Reduces turnover and enhances team performance

By prioritizing leadership growth, you’re planting seeds that will strengthen your team for seasons to come.

Local Opportunity: The Adams Leadership Program

One standout opportunity this spring is the Adams Leadership Program, led by Sarah Adams of Adams Leadership. Known for her dynamic training sessions and real-world insight, Sarah brings a practical, empowering approach to leadership development.

Her expanded 4-day leadership program offers an in-depth experience designed to:

  • Strengthen individual leadership skills

  • Improve communication and team dynamics

  • Help participants identify their leadership style

  • Provide tools for conflict resolution and performance coaching

This is a fantastic opportunity for current and emerging leaders across industries in the Shoals region.

Interested in learning more? Contact Shoals Business Incubator to find out how your business can participate or recommend a team member to attend!

Team-Building Tips for Spring

Leadership training is most effective when paired with a healthy, collaborative team environment. Spring is a great time to energize your team with intentional activities that strengthen trust, communication, and collaboration.

Here are a few ideas:

  • Host a team lunch or outdoor activity – Enjoy the season and build camaraderie.

  • Try a "job shadow day" – Encourage employees to learn what others do. This builds empathy and teamwork.

  • Start a weekly leadership moment – Share a quick tip or reflection at each team meeting.

  • Recognize contributions – Celebrate achievements, big and small, to boost morale.

Even small efforts go a long way in creating a positive team culture where leadership can thrive.

Retaining and Developing Talent

A strong team isn’t just built—it’s retained. As you grow leaders from within, it’s important to foster an environment where people feel valued and supported in their growth journey.

Here are a few best practices for talent retention:

  • Offer professional development opportunities – Encourage attendance at workshops, trainings, or webinars.

  • Create a culture of feedback – Regular check-ins help team members feel heard and supported.

  • Empower decision-making – Giving team members ownership over their work increases engagement and confidence.

  • Recognize leadership potential early – Don’t wait until someone is a manager to begin developing their leadership skills.

Leadership growth is an investment—and it pays off in stronger teams, better performance, and a more resilient business.

Final Thoughts

Spring is a time for planting seeds—and what better seeds to plant than the potential within your people? By taking time to invest in leadership development, foster team unity, and retain top talent, you’re laying the foundation for growth that lasts well beyond the season.

Programs like Adams Leadership are right here in our local community, ready to support you and your team. And at Shoals Business Incubator, we’re always here to connect you with the resources, workshops, and mentorship you need to grow your business—and your people—with confidence.

Mary Margaret Epps