"Leading by example" includes being a visionary or information bearer, manager, board developer and decision-maker, according to the Free Management Library. Learning to balance the varied responsibilities of being an executive director is demanding -- but it doesn't mean it can't be done.
Mentoring -- the tradition of having someone to discuss ideas with and seek advice from -- is a proven way of learning how to work into a new position. Mentoring can be internal or external, depending on the organization or company.
Training options for executive directors range from third-party consultants to online upper-level management training programs. Specific program selection depends on time, budget and location.
Investing in executive director training is essential. According to Patrick Lencion of Marcove Executive Training, effective leadership is "Not finance. Not strategy. Not technology. It is teamwork that remains the ultimate competitive edge, both because it is so powerful and so rare." Executive directors run the risk of isolation and burnout, but mentoring and further training can help address these issues.