You don’t need a title to be a leader.
~ Multiple Attributions
You may have learned important skills while you were in school; however, chances are, they didn’t teach you how to be a leader. Although technical skills are important, they’re only a part of your career development puzzle. Leadership skills are what will set you apart from the pack and boost you to the top of your career field. This is why leadership skills development is so important, and everyone has room for improvement.
Practice Good Listening Skills for Leadership Skills Development
If you want to be an effective leader, where people listen to you, you need to begin by listening to them. One of the most important areas of leadership skills development is improving your listening skills. When you listen to someone, give them your full attention, ask questions to confirm you’re hearing what they’re saying correctly, and watch your body language.
Take Initiative for Chances to Develop Your Leadership Skills
Leadership skills development also involves taking the initiative to take on leadership roles. Although you may be assigned leadership positions that can help you improve your skills, don’t wait for others to offer these opportunities. Volunteer for projects, both within your job scope and for multifunctional projects, and take the lead role to get leadership experience. Even if you’re already in a leadership position, by leading new people, you learn ways to deal with different personalities and challenges.
Great Leadership Inspires Others
Inspiring others is another key step in leadership skills development. The difference between a manager and a true leader is this – A manager tells people what to do and ensures it is done. A leader inspires people to want to things that need to be done. Inspire those around you. Learn what motivates them. Recognize when others are having challenges, and address these and encourage them to persevere. Always serve as a good example.
Never Stop Learning for Career-Long Leadership Skills Development
I don’t care if you’ve been in your career two years or 22 years – never stop learning! From industry specific knowledge to dealing with difficult employees, there is always new knowledge out there for you to learn and continue in your journey of leadership skills development. Never become so arrogant to think there is nothing more you can learn. Continuously challenge yourself, and you’ll find your career that much better for it.
About Colleen Seward Ryan, Leadership Expert
CREDENTIALS: Colleen Seward Ryan is an international workplace and employee management expert, award-winning corporate trainer, and conference keynote speaker. A media veteran, she has appeared on numerous radio shows around the country and has written more than 40 popular articles on diverse workplace issues. Colleen has delivered more than 1,100 entertaining programs in 48 states and five countries. She is the author of 10 published audio programs and two books including SECRETS YOUR BOSS ISN’T TELLING YOU.
Colleen Seward Ryan is available for keynotes, breakout sessions, and seminars by calling (623)340-7690.
