Leadership is so much more than just a title. Leadership is a skill, and like other skills, it’s one you should practice and nurture. So how can you exercise that leadership muscle? Let’s take a look!
According to McKinsey & Company, four kinds of behavior account for 89% of leadership effectiveness.
- solving problems effectively
- operating with a strong orientation toward results
- seeking different perspectives
- supporting others
Here are our top tips for creating your own leadership opportunities by developing leadership-specific abilities.
- Find a mentor. Having a mentor is key to your development as a leader. Mentors can share their own experiences and offer guidance specific to your organization. A leadership training track may be available to help you develop specific skills to elevate your role. Mentors can help you identify tracks for growth within your organization.
- Engage with training opportunities. A future-oriented workplace is dedicated to skills and leadership development. Thirty-seven percent of learning and development professionals say that building an agile organization with employees who are prepared to successfully navigate change is a priority for their organization. An employee looking to expand their leadership potential can access training to advance the skills required to navigate change and take on their next role.
- Join an employee resource group (ERG), professional organization or volunteer group. Another way to create your own leadership opportunities is looking outside your department. Start looking at your organization’s ERGs or explore opportunities within your professional or personal communities. Leading in other areas gives you the confidence to grow in your career.
- Take action as part of your team. Leading isn’t just about communicating a vision; it’s also about taking charge to see those ideas through. Working toward your organization’s goals and taking ownership positions you as someone who embodies the traits of a leader. Employees make a significant impact in their role and influence others when they prioritize action and stay focused on the greater vision.
When an organization is truly focused on its purpose, it’s not uncommon to find opportunities for anyone to rise to the challenge and help drive those goals forward, regardless of their role.
Are you ready to work in an organization with endless opportunities to grow? Apply to Paycom today!
