Do you have leadership skills?
No, I’m not just talking about the bossy girl on the playground. Whether you’re a small business owner, or a supervisor or manager, or have any ambition of being in one of those roles someday, what are you doing to develop the skills that will help you be successful?
I have regularly heard employees say that they did not get proper training for, or that their organization did not prepare them for, the leadership role they were performing. I have also heard employers say that employees need to take charge of their own development. So, who is right? I say both.
I believe that we all contribute to — rather than control — our destiny. In that respect, I believe that each one of us has the opportunity to be better, to grow, to develop in whatever direction we choose. If you’re interested in learning to paint, you take a class, right? Or you do an internet search and find videos that teach you how to do paint. Why don’t we take the same approach to development in our careers?
Whether you own a small business or are employed by a larger organization, you have the power to sharpen your skills and abilities. You are in charge of your own learning and development.
For example, if you want to climb the corporate ladder, the next position may require leadership or management experience. How are you going to get that when you don’t have the experience? Most organizations will give credit for ANY leadership or management experience you have.
Here are my top 5 opportunities for development outside of the workplace.
1. Volunteer.
This can take on many forms. Coach a local youth sports team. Lead a committee for a community organization. Volunteer to head up a project at your place of worship. All of these are leadership experiences.
2. Take the Lead in Professional and Civic Organizations.
I cannot stress this enough. Whether it’s an organization that’s specific to your profession (I’m a member of the Society for Human Resource Management) or a civic club like Rotary, these groups are always looking for members who will join the board of directors or lead a project.
3. Work with Your Chamber of Commerce.
Your local chamber probably has traditional employees, but the majority of its committees and boards are likely run by volunteers. Most local chambers also have a leadership program, a yearlong program in which you learn more about your community.
4. Mentor.
Whether it’s through a structured program such as Big Brothers Big Sisters or a program through your local school system, mentoring is a great opportunity, not only for building your skills but also for doing some good in the process.
5. Teach something.
Start your own class — baking, yoga, whatever you’re good at. You can even start your own Facebook group and create your own short videos.
These ideas are not just for those who want to move up within organizations. Each one of these opportunities expands the skill sets of small business owners and entrepreneurs. They will also help grow the network for your business or your next job.
The bottom line is this: there’s a whole world out there full of endless opportunity. Don’t be afraid to go after it!
