Three simple ways to start leading, today!
In my last post, I reminded you that you don’t need anyone’s permission to be a leader. Knowing that people in your organization are starved for leadership, you ask, “How do I become a leader if I’m not in a leadership position?” Let me share with you three simple steps to becoming a leader.
In my last post, I reminded you that you don’t need anyone’s permission to be a leader. Knowing that people in your organization are starved for leadership, you ask, “How do I become a leader if I’m not in a leadership position?” Let me share with you three simple steps to becoming a leader.
First, regardless of your position or tenure in your organization, you can begin immediately leading by example. People naturally look up to those who are highly competent in their work. By making just a little extra time and effort to do your job especially well, you will set the example for others to follow. Since average is just so… average, it doesn’t take very much to stand out in the work world! Your personal excellence will draw others to you, seeking out your advice and expertise. You will immediately be considered a leader among your peers.
Second, once you are recognized as an expert, you will naturally begin to help others through informal one on one instruction, or even as a formal mentor. Look for ways to reach out and help others who are new to their role, or are struggling with their responsibilities. Ask your manager if you can help train or mentor others in your business unit. While you will be performing a valuable service to your organization, it is you who will be the primary beneficiary of your initiative! Teaching and mentoring others will enhance your leadership skills and elevate your confidence and self-esteem. Your efforts will be rewarded exponentially through the universal law of reciprocity.
Third, now that you are an expert in your position, and a mentor to your peers, you are ready to take on group leadership assignments. Again, all you need is a little initiative to seek out and volunteer for existing opportunities or unmet needs. Whether you are naturally extroverted or introverted, the confidence developed from the expertise in your role, and the experience of training or mentoring others, will more than prepare you to excel in leading a group project!
Second, once you are recognized as an expert, you will naturally begin to help others through informal one on one instruction, or even as a formal mentor. Look for ways to reach out and help others who are new to their role, or are struggling with their responsibilities. Ask your manager if you can help train or mentor others in your business unit. While you will be performing a valuable service to your organization, it is you who will be the primary beneficiary of your initiative! Teaching and mentoring others will enhance your leadership skills and elevate your confidence and self-esteem. Your efforts will be rewarded exponentially through the universal law of reciprocity.
Third, now that you are an expert in your position, and a mentor to your peers, you are ready to take on group leadership assignments. Again, all you need is a little initiative to seek out and volunteer for existing opportunities or unmet needs. Whether you are naturally extroverted or introverted, the confidence developed from the expertise in your role, and the experience of training or mentoring others, will more than prepare you to excel in leading a group project!
How long does this three-step process take? Not long at all! Begin immediately, take initiative, and in a matter of weeks, you will be well on your way as a recognized leader in your organization! Please know that this simple system WILL work. Nevertheless, very few people will make the minimal effort necessary to stand out, and become a leader. Remember this mantra: “If you want to be extraordinary, do extra-ordinary things!”
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