In a working environment nobody is truly indispensable, unless of course it’s a one-person operation. For everyone else, becoming more well-rounded can significantly boost your career, whether you want to advance within your current company or look toward new opportunities.
You can consciously develop your own leadership skills.
In fact, your demonstrated interest in self-improvement, and the very act of doing so, are important leadership qualities that are appreciated and sought-after by all types of employers.
“Leadership” is defined in many ways, often with lists of personal characteristics such as:
- Honesty and integrity
- Analytical and problem-solving skills Results-driven
- Innovative Dynamic communicator
- Strategic perspective Inspiring to others
- Engaged listener
- Vision
- Confidence
- Commitment
- Passion
- Courage
Nobody possesses every possible leadership trait, and nobody expects you to, either. Leadership is about creating thinking and setting an example. Leaders have an aptitude for developing and motivating people and always giving due credit to others.
Expanding your leadership ability takes planning, because a systematic approach will help you cultivate your skills in the most meaningful way. Try these tips:
- Start by identifying your core strengths. Self-assessment can be tricky, so ask friends and co-workers what they think, since they see you differently than you see yourself.
- Work on one thing at a time. Ask people who are talented in your targeted new skill area for advice on how you can improve.
- Do your homework – there are myriad books, online resources, classes and other learning opportunities.
- Get to know your community and contemplate your place in it. Consider participating in a local or industry-based leadership program.
Since you were a kid, you’ve probably been advised to “play to your strengths.” But leadership is about augmenting those strengths. So concentrate on honing skills that complement your core strengths. Like athletic cross-training, developing complementary skills can exponentially improve your overall leadership “persona.”
How do you identify complementary skills? Think about attributes that would help you use your core strengths in new ways. For instance, if you’re a great bookkeeper but not very outgoing, learning about how to overcome shyness or improve your oral communication will make you more comfortable working directly with colleagues or clients.
Leadership reflects your ability to connect with others, and leadership styles vary with each individual. That means everyone can develop their leadership capabilities. And who knows? One day you may become indispensable.
