Which level of leadership involves refining competencies at a proficient level?

The level of leadership that involves refining competencies at a proficient level is direct leadership. This is primarily focused on day-to-day interactions and relationships, where leaders directly influence and guide their subordinates. In this capacity, leaders work closely with individuals and teams, allowing them to identify specific competencies that need honing. A direct leader is often engaged in observing, mentoring, and providing feedback, which helps team members sharpen their skills and improve performance on a practical level.

In contrast, organizational leadership relates to the broader structures and systems in place, which might not focus specifically on individual competencies but rather on improving organizational capabilities as a whole. Situational leadership emphasizes adapting one's leadership style to the environment or situation at hand, rather than refining skills at a proficient level. Strategic leadership looks at long-term goals and the overall vision for the organization, often dealing with high-level decision-making rather than the specific competencies of individuals. Therefore, direct leadership stands out as the level deeply connected to skill refinement and proficiency.