A common misconception many people hold is that being manager automatically makes you a leader – it doesn’t. And many also believe they must wait until they have direct reports to lead – this is also untrue. To become a leader, don't wait for the fancy title or the corner office. Here are three things you can do now, even if someone else is calling the shots:
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Demonstrate your potential. Raise your hand for new initiatives, especially ones that might be visible to those outside your unit. Look for opportunities outside of work, too. You can sit on the board of a local nonprofit or organize a volunteers' event in your community.
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Support your boss in reaching their goals. Find out what keeps your boss up at night and propose solutions to those problems.
- Find role models. Look for people who have the roles you want and study how they act, communicate, and dress. Identify behaviours that you can emulate while being true to yourself.
The above leadership tip...
was sent in response to a question from a participant on our acclaimed 10/10 leadership development and mentoring programme and adapted from Act Like a Leader Before You Are One by Amy Gallo. Whether you're a first time manager or an experienced leader, straightforward, practical advice on best practice is hard to find. Until now. To find out how you, your team or your organisation can benefit, please contact us.
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