Want to gain leadership experience in work, school and life? But what qualifies us to be leaders and how do we find the opportunities? I'm participating in a University Leadership Panel this week and, in preparation, simplified some key ways to gain leadership experience.
Willingness- Sometimes the best way to get leadership experience is the willingness to get involved in a committee, project, or group. Once involved, there are ways to take on smaller 'sub-set' assignments, and gain experience without having to be the main leader.
Listening/communicating- In work, school and community service, it's often easier just to jump in and get it done yourself. While this is often appreciated because the job is done, it doesn't accomplish the goal of gaining leadership skills. Take the time to listen, engage others, and communicate the goals. It may take longer but the rewards are buy-in from others and more leadership experience for you.
Leading your Self- Look at your successful projects and think through how you had to be your own leader to accomplish the goals. What were the parts you enjoyed and how did you grow?
As they say, showing up is half the battle- -so get out there, get involved, and gain more leadership skills.
Willingness- Sometimes the best way to get leadership experience is the willingness to get involved in a committee, project, or group. Once involved, there are ways to take on smaller 'sub-set' assignments, and gain experience without having to be the main leader.
Listening/communicating- In work, school and community service, it's often easier just to jump in and get it done yourself. While this is often appreciated because the job is done, it doesn't accomplish the goal of gaining leadership skills. Take the time to listen, engage others, and communicate the goals. It may take longer but the rewards are buy-in from others and more leadership experience for you.
Leading your Self- Look at your successful projects and think through how you had to be your own leader to accomplish the goals. What were the parts you enjoyed and how did you grow?
As they say, showing up is half the battle- -so get out there, get involved, and gain more leadership skills.
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