About Us

Inspired by Failure;

Motivated to Change.

Why do some leaders fail to lead with integrity, protect stakeholders, or appropriately manage self-interest? Our founder, A. Dale Thompson, PhD, noted the terrible consequences of many high-profile leadership failures – for the leaders, employees, organizations, and communities. From his lengthy career as an executive consultant, Thompson wondered why so many leaders stumble. In 2004, he founded Leadership Worth Following to help chart a better path forward.

Creating New Model.

Dale and his colleagues studied the people, companies, and events involved in these leadership failures. They developed a new model, Worthy Leadership, that is anchored in 3Cs:

  • Capacity
    Critically important skills, abilities, and knowledge.
  • Commitment
    Passions and energies that propel performance.
  • Character
    Integrity and courage to earn and maintain trust.

This innovative approach – backed by scientific scholarship and hands-on business expertise – is a clear framework to help organizations better assess and develop successful leadership. (Click here to read about the Worthy Leadership model in the Consulting Psychology Journal.)


Ongoing Development

LWF serves leading and aspiring companies across virtually every industry and organization size. Today, we’re a premier provider of leadership development consulting, assessment, and talent strategies that deliver results.

We continue conducting impactful, insightful research for our clients, industry conferences, and journals. LWF leverages decades of experience to strengthen organizations by developing individuals and teams for successful leadership. We inspire actions and attitudes that nurture individuals and invigorate organizations.