Are You Wanting More Leadership Responsibility? Check out these 3 Tips to Help Get You Started
As I stated yesterday, I get asked this question a lot when coaching or mentoring people. Some paths are obvious — apply for management roles, talk to your manager, etc. I’m going to tell you three things I’ve done that have helped.
Tip #1: Find a problem, propose a solution.
It’s easy to grumble about what leadership should do. Instead of grumbling to colleagues, think creatively about a solution. Run it by some colleagues, make it better, then present to your manager.
When proposing your solution, don’t try to change your entire org or even business unit — focus on a team or a single workstream. Get feedback, then scale. If you haven’t tried this before, start with a small problem (like improving an ineffective meeting or using a data field differently).
Tip #2: Coach or guide a new employee. If you don’t have a buddy/guide program, start one.
New people need guidance, and often times, managers have too much on their plates to give day-by-day guidance. Volunteer to help a new person get acclimated — it’s a great first step into what leading people is like.
You may find out how to get better before becoming a leader — or even that it isn’t for you!
Tip #3: Join an employee resource group and lead an initiative.
My last three employers had groups like these — focusing on women, minorities, LGBTQIA+ community, veterans, or others. Join them (and if you’re a white male like me, join as an ally — you will learn SO much you took for granted). They are constantly looking for help in planning and coordinating events.
That’s leadership!
Yes, you should also do the “standard” practices — lead from where you are, talk to your manager, apply for leadership roles — but these tips can help you start the leadership journey.
It’s also a great way to hone your skills!
Leaders — what other tips would you offer?
Those new to leadership — what do you think of these tips?
Read this post and more on my Typeshare Social Blog
