Leadership Tip

How to know if you are ready to lead

Becoming a leader is a huge change in your role. Some newly promoted leaders excel, but others wonder what they’ve gotten themselves into. If you’re ambivalent about making the leap, here’s what to consider:

  • Count the cost. Taking on new responsibilities will require you to give up old ones. Are you willing to rethink your relationships with your former peers? To consider the bigger picture in all situations?
     
  • Listen to your fears. Worrying about failure or criticism is normal; if you aren’t afraid, you shouldn’t be trusted with leadership. But how do you deal with fear? Do you acknowledge it without giving in to it? Or do you bury it beneath a brash show of confidence?
     
  • Check your motive. Are you driven by ambition or contribution? By looking good or doing good? A leader's job is to support their team, not to guard their power jealously.

The above leadership tip...
was sent in response to a question from a participant on our 10/10 leadership development and mentoring programme and adapted from Are You Sure You Want to Be a Manager? by Joseph Grenny. 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 join us on our next complimentary webinar or contact us.

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