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135Momentum2024 2 5 ways to level up your leadership skills in 2026 — Level up your leadership skills this year. (Momentum Leaders)

Leadership in 2026 looks a lot different than it did even a year ago.

Between rapid tech shifts, evolving workplace expectations and the next generation of talent entering the workforce, today’s leaders are navigating a new business landscape with all new challenges.

We talked to a few Birmingham leaders to find out the most powerful ways they’re leveling up their leadership in 2026 (and how you can, too!).

Read on for five tips to implement now, and see how you can build even more skills by attending this upcoming event in Birmingham.

1. Communicate with clarity

448Momentum2024 5 ways to level up your leadership skills in 2026 — Communication is key! (Momentum Leaders)

It’s been said that most conflict is a result of miscommunication. But clear communication doesn’t just prevent confusion, it creates trust and understanding.

“Clear, consistent communication helps prevent misunderstandings and reduces the assumptions that can lead to frustration or inefficiency.

It also creates the conditions for empathy—when leaders communicate openly, they show that they are listening and that they value the perspectives and experiences of their team members.”
Kristy L. Waldon Stewart, Senior Wholesale CRE Relationship Associate, Synovus

2. Seek feedback from peers you admire

261Momentum2024 5 ways to level up your leadership skills in 2026 — Grab a coffee or lunch with a peer + get their insight. (Momentum Leaders)

It might sound obvious, but sometimes one of the simplest ways to hone your leadership skills is to talk with your peers and fellow leaders. Sitting down with peers, mentors and leaders you respect can provide clarity, perspective and growth you won’t find in a training manual.

“In life, not everyone’s opinion carries the same weight. But the people who know you, who care about you, who will be honest with you and who truly want to see you succeed—those are the voices worth listening to.”
Meade Hartfield, Partner, Bradley

If you’re a leader or manager, encourage your team to do the same. Create space for them to seek out relationships and communities that challenge and support them.

“Encourage your talent to find an organization, committee or program where they’ll gain a sounding board, a teaching tool and a natural forum for like-minded personal and professional growth.

I have found a good number of those friends and mentors through Momentum, and the impact has been lasting both personally and professionally.”
Meade Hartfield, Partner, Bradley

3. Learn to recognize soft skills

087Momentum2024 5 ways to level up your leadership skills in 2026 — Some skills just can’t be taught! (Momentum Leaders)

According to leaders in the Birmingham community, talent recognition has become a defining leadership skill. The most effective leaders aren’t only tracking performance, they’re learning how to identify soft skills that signal long-term potential.

In today’s economy, leadership isn’t just about managing output. It’s about seeing raw potential early and coaching people to sharpen the skills that will matter beyond their job title.

“The best leaders are getting really good at spotting soft skills—adaptability, ownership, clear communication—that signal who will thrive as roles change.

With technology and the economy moving this fast, seeing raw potential instead of just current output is a major leadership edge. Bonus points if you can actually coach people to build and sharpen those skills along the way.”
Delphine Carter, Founder, Buolo Solutions

4. Advocate for yourself

236Momentum2024 1 5 ways to level up your leadership skills in 2026 — Be your own cheerleader. (Momentum Leaders)

In 2026, leadership development means creating opportunities for yourself.

That means speaking up about your goals, your progress and the direction you want your career to go, even when it feels uncomfortable.

“Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself. You are your own best cheerleader!

Be willing to step into challenging tasks or projects, even when they push you outside your comfort zone. That’s often where the biggest growth happens.”
Kristy L. Waldon Stewart, Senior Wholesale CRE Relationship Associate, Synovus

5. Invest in your local community of leaders

399Momentum2024 edited 1 5 ways to level up your leadership skills in 2026 — Learn from other powerful + influential leaders. (Momentum Leaders)

No leader grows alone.

Across conversations with Momentum alumni, one theme keeps coming up: community matters. Learning from other leaders, exchanging ideas and gaining perspective outside your own organization is one of the fastest ways to grow.

That’s where Momentum’s programming—and especially their flagship event—comes in.

Rise 2026 is returning to Birmingham

370Momentum2024 1 5 ways to level up your leadership skills in 2026 — Rise 2026 is just around the corner. (Momentum Leaders)

On March 3, 2026, more than 1,200 professionals will head to the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex for Rise 2026, a full day of learning, skill-building and high-value connection with fellow community leaders.

Throughout the day, participants can choose from 18 breakout sessions led by expert facilitators, each designed to strengthen skills including:

Communication + storytelling
Self-awareness + emotional intelligence
Career growth + planning
Vision-setting + action mapping
Team leadership + decision-making

“For anyone who meaningfully participates in Momentum’s programs, you most certainly will walk away inspired and better prepared to lead yourself and those around you.”
Meade Hartfield, Partner, Bradley

Here’s what you need to know about Rise 2026 to get started—check out our story for a more in-depth look.