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How many people do you know who are “born leaders“? I can't think of many. The old adage about natural leadership is mostly wrong. Yes, there are people who are blessed with qualities that will lead them to positions of influence; they may be naturally outgoing or creative.
But in most cases, it's something that's worked on and mastered for years until the leader becomes so skilled that everyone thinks they're a natural—like an entertainer who becomes an “overnight sensation” after decades of being cooped up in the darkest corners. small show. business.
Climbing up
This myth of 'born leadership' prevents many talented people from taking charge and making valuable contributions to businesses and organizations. Many employees think they must have one formal title to take the lead on a project and do not believe they have what it takes to be tapped for that management position.
But unnamed leaders emerge every day and should be encouraged to do so. Both employees and managers need to understand this LEADER can succeed without formal authority. Here's how informal leaders can rise to the top and how their managers can help:
Be someone people want to follow
Instead of refusing when someone asks you to take responsibility, start saying yes. Volunteer to help others when you see opportunities. If you're afraid of seeming pushy, present it as a benefit to the boss or team leader, not to yourself. “Can I take that off your plate?”
Even formal leaders need willing followers. Offering to help other team members achieve their goals builds goodwill and gives them the sense that you're not out for yourself—a quality that very few “real” leaders possess. When your boss is looking around for someone to put in charge, you'll be top of mind.
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Give an example
The first rule i head is “led by example”. If you're just giving orders, you're doing it wrong. The secret is to tell, not tell. This means working together with the team so that your behavior can be easily modeled.
Remember, if you want to take the lead on a project when you're not technically running the show, second guessing and criticizing the responsible person is not able to climb. It's wrong, and you may live to regret the payoff if you end up coming out on top.
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Identify potential leaders
Some people are happy just being in a team, doing their own work without the stress of administration or responsibility for the progress of others. There is nothing wrong with that. But almost everyone has a moment when they can contribute to one head role — and should be encouraged to do so.
Managers should always be on the lookout for employees who can excel as a leader even when they are not in charge. Look for demonstrated leadership behaviors in the ranks, such as employees who provide good project ideas, are trusted by coworkers, and actively support your company's mission and goals. If you have a new initiative, these employees can help you get other workers on board.
Decisions and accountability
Decision-making it is a critical skill and does not come naturally, it takes practice. Whenever an employee comes to you or their supervisor for an answer, turn the question around and let them offer what they think is the solution. Make them think.
Power can go to one's head and turn a cooperative team player into a boss authoritarian who is fast losing friends on staff. When you see it happening, pull them aside and ask them how they would feel if someone treated them like that. Sometimes, just opening their eyes to a problem makes people want to change; other times, you may need to be more direct.
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Have faith
Every organization is underutilized head potential within their teams, often in unexpected places. You might be one of those people who shy away from it, thinking it's just not one of your skills. Once you realize that it's not something you're born with, but can be developed with practice, you might want to start working on it.
Bring a positive attitude as you work to become a trusted leader. Your attitude is one of the most important characteristics you can pass on to others in any capacity, but especially as a leader. Having a positive attitude with everything you do will take you far in life and in business.
