You may or may not hold a position of authority in your company, either way you can be a great leader in your workplace through leading by example. Start by changing your behavior and you will find not only can your changed attitude improve your career success, your new outlook can also be a positive influence on those around you.
A leader is not simply someone who has the authority to direct others, a leader is someone who inspires others. Leadership is often defined as the “process of social influence in which one person can enlist the aid and support of others in the accomplishment of a common task”. You have social influence over yourself, your co-workers, clients and even your boss and you choose what type of personal leadership you practice.
Start by practicing self-leadership. Your attitude and behavior towards yourself affects your health, your mood, your confidence and more. Think about the qualities you appreciate in a good leader and lead yourself to greatness! Consider these traits of great leaders:
Honesty– Are you honest with yourself about your strengths and weaknesses?
Respect– Do you treat yourself with respect and consideration?
Communication– Do you communicate with yourself– recognizing when you are hungry, angry, lonely or tired?
Follow Through– Do you attend to your basic needs?
Confidence– Do you give yourself praise for a job well done? Do you ask for recognition, when appropriate?
Vision– Do you have a vision for your career success?
By practicing qualities of self-leadership, you will find improved satisfaction and success in your life and your career. When you practice outstanding leadership on a personal level, the people around you in your work will be drawn to your positive energy and you will find others are more likely to support you in your professional goals.
Once you’ve mastered self-leadership, you can practice great leadership in your interactions with your co-workers, clients and management. Think back to your idea of outstanding leadership and extend that ideal towards everyone you encounter in your workplace.
Enthusiasm– Are you enthusiastic and engaged in your interaction with others?
Encouraging– Do you listen to ideas, as well as speak up and share your own?
Courtesy– Are your courteous of others and tolerant of minor annoyances?
Listening– Are you open to suggestion and admit when you are wrong?
Delegate– Do you delegate or ask for help when you need it? Can you say “no” when necessary?
Team Player– Do you actively participate in the success of your team?
What qualities do you desire in a leader? How do those qualities inspire you to work better? Do you think you can benefit from practicing these qualities? Please share your thoughts and ideas!
Photo Credit: Copyright (c) 123RF Stock Photos