Positioning yourself as a leader will make your work more meaningful and advance your career. You can gain influence based on your title, or on knowledge and skills you already possess. The title will only hold its significance for a while, but your knowledge and skills and what and how you are willing to use them can help you and your team go along way.
While it could take years to climb the ladder, tapping into your personal strengths is something you can start doing right now. Learn how to use your current assets to build up your clout in the workplace.
I have found that leaders who are effective always have the mindset of learning. They never quench the appetite to want to learn something new. Nothing is above or below them they just see growth opportunity. These are six simple options that I find useful and have seen in many successful leaders. Like the old saying goes, "When in Rome...."
Use Your Knowledge to Position Yourself as a Leader
Read daily. Pick up books about your passion, work and advice or any topic that interests you. The more you read, the better prepared you’ll be to contribute to any discussion. You’ll sound like a leader whether you’re engaging in small talk or critiquing a new logo.
Sign up for training. Take advantage of programs your employer offers. Brush up on your high school Spanish or become proficient with a new software package. Showing willingness and creating opportunities can help you be seen as someone who is valuable and needed. There is a big difference between being wanted or needed.
Browse during breaks. Those brief intervals you spend on hold or pausing between meetings can be put to good use. Break out your phone and search for industry news. You’ll stand out if you’re the first one to notice a major news story that can relate to what you are doing or life in general.
Take a course. Many adults juggle full time jobs while going back to school. Schedule an appointment at your local university to see what you need to complete your degree. Enroll in a development program or coaching initiative to help you establish a growth plan. We offer many opportunities for online options both live and on demand to help with balancing life.
Consult an expert. Contact others in your network who would be willing to share their wisdom. Interview a colleague who has published a new book and promote her work on your personal blog. You’ll both benefit from increased information and publicity. Looking into a coaching opportunity could be a great way to have an on going growth plan developed and be able to give accountability to reaching the goals or growth you desire.
Shadow another leader or a star employee. If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, a high performer may be pleased to show you the ropes. Let them know that you admire their style. Offer to assist them with specific tasks so you can learn from their example.
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