Positioning yourself as a leader will make your work more meaningful and advance your career. You can gain influence based on your title or on the knowledge and skills you already possess.
While it could take years to climb the ladder up into senior management, tapping into your strengths is something you can start doing right now. Learn how to use your current assets to build up your clout in the workplace.
Expand Your Current Knowledge to Position Yourself as a Leader
- 1Read daily. Pick up books about business advice or any topic that interests you. The more you read, the better prepared you’ll be to contribute to any discussion. You’ll sound like a leader, whether you’re engaging in small talk or critiquing a new logo.
- 2Sign up for training. Take advantage of programs your employer offers. Brush up on your high school Spanish or become proficient with a new software package.
- 3Browse during breaks. Those brief intervals you spend on hold or pausing between meetings can be put to good use. Break out your phone and search for industry news. You’ll stand out if you’re the first one to notice a major lawsuit or merger.
- 4Take a course. Many adults juggle full-time jobs while going back to school. Schedule an appointment at your local university to see what you need to complete your degree.
- 5Consult an expert. Contact others in your network who would be willing to share their wisdom. Interview a colleague who has published a new book and promote her work on your personal blog. You’ll both benefit from increased information and publicity.
- 6Shadow a star employee. If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, a high performer may be pleased to show you the ropes. Let them know that you admire their style. Offer to assist them with specific tasks so you can learn from their example.
Daily under 20 Minutes Tasks to Prove Your a Leader
Transform yourself into the kind of leader other employees will want to follow. Your knowledge and skills are valuable resources that can help you to develop your talents and inspire others.